Artistic Exploration During Recovery
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The Healing Power of Art
There are many different ways to self-express that don’t involve coloring or art. Some people like to doodle, others enjoy writing in a journal and some find joy in cooking as an outlet for their emotions.
Creativity and the arts are therapeutic in many ways.
When we are going through a difficult time in our lives, it is important for us to have outlets that allow us to explore and express ourselves. This can be done with many different avenues of the arts including dance, music, painting or writing just to name a few.
Questions? We’d love to talk!
Do you remember the adult coloring craze of 2015?
It may seem like a silly fad, but the benefits of coloring aren’t quite so childish. When we release our stress on paper and focus on something other than what is going on in our lives, it can rejuvenate us to continue with the struggles that we face.
Why Creativity is Important in Recovery
Recovery is a complicated process. As such, it helps us to turn inwards and reflect. What’s often at the root of addictive behavior is pent-up, unresolved emotions and suppressed trauma. The result is wounded parts of us that can benefit from creative expression.
So why is creativity important in recovery? The main reason is that it gives us the opportunity to process our feelings without having them consume us entirely. It makes sense that if we can express ourselves through something creative then there will be less negative energy left to seep into our minds.
The Importance of Art in Recovery
Artistic expression isn’t just important for the individual, but it is also invaluable for family members and friends who are trying to better understand what someone close to them is going through. It can be very difficult for those that are outside of recovery systems to understand what is going on and why we are feeling the way that we do.
When someone in recovery creates art or even experiences the artistic expression of another they can communicate these feelings to those around them without having to spell it out or put into words exactly how they feel.
This allows everyone involved to be more open with each other, as well as gain a better understanding of why certain actions are happening, all of which can lead to better communication.
Creative Expression in Recovery
Sometimes people may not feel like they are good enough or that their creativity doesn’t measure up to others around them. This is why it’s important for us to understand that our art, and the way we express ourselves through a creative outlet, aren’t always going to be exactly like someone else’s.
It is our own and it comes from a very special place inside of us that we must honor and cherish— even if we don’t feel like we are capable of doing so at the moment.
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24/7 Comprehensive Care
Our residential setting provides round-the-clock support, medical detox when needed, and structured days designed to build stability and healthy routines.
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Safe & Supportive Environment
Clients heal in a fully supervised space, free from outside triggers and distractions, ensuring the focus stays on recovery and long-term personal growth.
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More Than Outpatient or Rehab-Only
Unlike outpatient care, our program offers full residential treatment—combining medical support, therapy, and daily structure for lasting results.
Finding an Artistic Expression That Works for You in Recovery
Finding art or artistic expression that works for you can be liberating, and artistic expression and positive evaluation of one’s self are critical in addiction recovery. The use of creativity in the context of stress relief and healing can include the following forms of human expression and more:
- Visual art (drawing, painting, collage, etc.)
- Drama
- Writing and storytelling
- Clay works
- Singing, music, and movement
The arts can be a powerful coping tool in addiction recovery, but it is important to find what works best for you! Whatever it is that makes your soul sing and brings you peace—do not be afraid to embrace it.
These moments of clarity can help return us back into balance where we feel most at home and alive again. Artistic exploration during recovery is a wonderful way to find yourself and your voice again.
Workshops & Therapies Available
The Arts provide individuals an outlet to express themselves as another avenue for self-discovery. At Annandale Behavioral Health, we offer workshops in the arts to encourage emotional exploration through creative writing, music, art and improvisational theatre.
Clients are given the opportunity to feel a sense of accomplishment through the arts as well as find new communities of support. Groups include creative writing, art therapy, experiential therapy and improv therapy.
To learn more about how you can work with us to incorporate the arts in the beautiful hills of Pasadena, contact us at 855-778-8668. We can’t wait to start you on the path to a healthy, happy and more fulfilling life!
Your Journey to Recovery Starts Here!
You deserve care that respects your privacy and supports your healing. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Giorgio Albanese
18:55 07 May 25
Annandale helped change my life. The clinical programming helped me tremendously and the house felt like a home. The environment was safe and comfortable. My life has improved significantly and the internal awareness I've gained has followed me into my work, my fellowship, and my marriage. I cannot thank the staff enough for helping me get back on my feet. I will recommend this facility to anyone that comes to me for help.
Chloe Nett
20:27 05 May 25
Darryl and Remy are both incredible and run a tight program that is highly ethical. Changed my life!
Larkin Hill
23:41 03 May 25
Be wary of one star reviews for treatment centers. There are some vindictive, bitter, angry clients who will blame anyone but themselves; and treatment centers and their staff tend to be a go-to target for abuse and retaliation.
In short, Annandale worked for me.
Short story made long: Like any treatment center, you will get out what you put in though. But a good treatment center will give you all the tools, support and understanding you need. And that is what Annandale provides: a structure and foundation for your success, which you build on once you leave.
All the various treatment center bells, whistles and accoutrements don’t matter without a good staff/therapists on hand to guide and support. Luckily, Annandale has both.
The program itself focuses not only on getting sober/maintaining sobriety, but also on modifying negative thought patterns and the troublesome behavior that arises as a result. They know that you must focus on the problem itself, not just the symptoms, in order to recover. Drinking is a symptom of a deeper rooted issue.
They also offer some unique elements to the program, such as equine therapy and soundbaths. I scoffed initially, but kept an open mind. And guess what? It was a great help. Other groups/activities included yoga, meditation, mindfulness walks, nature walks, art, gardening, etc. They take you to 12 step recovery meetings, but Annandale itself is non-denominational as far as I could gather. Which is a plus in my book.
Great location in Pasadena. Right up the street from the Rose Bowl, where you’ll take walks some days. Other walks go a block or two in the other direction and offer absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Rose Bowl, Pasadana and its environs, mountain ranges etc. It’s truly a sight to behold.
The house and its campus are extremely serene and quiet. The house is comfortable, a comfy “home” vibe with people that genuinely care. A special feeling to it. Doesn’t feel like some “facility”.
Private bedrooms with their own flat screen TVs. Almost all have their own private bathroom. You get to place takeout lunch and dinner choices (with a mind towards healthy options from some great restaurants) on the iPad every day (which is included with your stay).
But more than anything, it is the staff that makes or breaks the place. Darryl is the owner and possibly the first person you’ll speak to. a very kind, caring, genuine, astute and just cool guy. Very helpful and personable. I was in a bad way when I initially called and Darryl was an immeasurable help in easing my concerns and providing comfort in a very distressful time in my life. Remy, the on-site nurse, is extremely attentive and understanding. Dr Coe is one of the most brilliant doctors I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking with—the guy pulled things out that shocked me, things that no doctor-therapist/psychiatrist has been able to reach or decipher in all my years. He gave me a true, unbridled diagnosis of where my issues stemmed from. My wife of 20 years co-signed what he said with a very troubling passion (haha). Said he was spot-on, and he was.
Roxanne is one of the kindest and most lovely people I’ve ever met. The most gentle eyes, emphatic tone — a truly calming presence who offered me immeasurable support so thank you 🙏. Jordan was relatable, friendly and easy to talk to. Very intelligent and understanding of how addiction and sobriety work. Kevin, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. Michael, who became a genuine friend and somebody I could always talk to — and was always willing to listen.
Becky, Carrie, Xenia, Alex, Chris and I know I’m missing a few, but really, everyone was great and offered their own unique approach/personality. This place quite literally saved my life. I was on death’s door and couldn’t even walk in my own when I went in. And walked out a “new’ man.
In short, Annandale worked for me.
Short story made long: Like any treatment center, you will get out what you put in though. But a good treatment center will give you all the tools, support and understanding you need. And that is what Annandale provides: a structure and foundation for your success, which you build on once you leave.
All the various treatment center bells, whistles and accoutrements don’t matter without a good staff/therapists on hand to guide and support. Luckily, Annandale has both.
The program itself focuses not only on getting sober/maintaining sobriety, but also on modifying negative thought patterns and the troublesome behavior that arises as a result. They know that you must focus on the problem itself, not just the symptoms, in order to recover. Drinking is a symptom of a deeper rooted issue.
They also offer some unique elements to the program, such as equine therapy and soundbaths. I scoffed initially, but kept an open mind. And guess what? It was a great help. Other groups/activities included yoga, meditation, mindfulness walks, nature walks, art, gardening, etc. They take you to 12 step recovery meetings, but Annandale itself is non-denominational as far as I could gather. Which is a plus in my book.
Great location in Pasadena. Right up the street from the Rose Bowl, where you’ll take walks some days. Other walks go a block or two in the other direction and offer absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Rose Bowl, Pasadana and its environs, mountain ranges etc. It’s truly a sight to behold.
The house and its campus are extremely serene and quiet. The house is comfortable, a comfy “home” vibe with people that genuinely care. A special feeling to it. Doesn’t feel like some “facility”.
Private bedrooms with their own flat screen TVs. Almost all have their own private bathroom. You get to place takeout lunch and dinner choices (with a mind towards healthy options from some great restaurants) on the iPad every day (which is included with your stay).
But more than anything, it is the staff that makes or breaks the place. Darryl is the owner and possibly the first person you’ll speak to. a very kind, caring, genuine, astute and just cool guy. Very helpful and personable. I was in a bad way when I initially called and Darryl was an immeasurable help in easing my concerns and providing comfort in a very distressful time in my life. Remy, the on-site nurse, is extremely attentive and understanding. Dr Coe is one of the most brilliant doctors I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking with—the guy pulled things out that shocked me, things that no doctor-therapist/psychiatrist has been able to reach or decipher in all my years. He gave me a true, unbridled diagnosis of where my issues stemmed from. My wife of 20 years co-signed what he said with a very troubling passion (haha). Said he was spot-on, and he was.
Roxanne is one of the kindest and most lovely people I’ve ever met. The most gentle eyes, emphatic tone — a truly calming presence who offered me immeasurable support so thank you 🙏. Jordan was relatable, friendly and easy to talk to. Very intelligent and understanding of how addiction and sobriety work. Kevin, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. Michael, who became a genuine friend and somebody I could always talk to — and was always willing to listen.
Becky, Carrie, Xenia, Alex, Chris and I know I’m missing a few, but really, everyone was great and offered their own unique approach/personality. This place quite literally saved my life. I was on death’s door and couldn’t even walk in my own when I went in. And walked out a “new’ man.
judy hiep
20:08 02 Feb 24
I love this place. I had to check my niece in 2 years ago. It was a difficult time for our family. Remy explained everything step by step and reassured us she will be in good hands. Like most family, this is our first time having to figure things out. The Facility and staff were very sweet and knowledgeable. The place is like a sanctuary. Peaceful, well thought out and comfortable. We are forever thankful what they have done for us, and appreciate everyone on the team.
Zorina Pelant
16:21 26 Jan 24
Remy Olivier is wonderful. She is the Program Director at Annandale. She is caring, conscientious and so knowledgeable. She makes multiple arrangements and was always available to assist with anything that came up. Remy is an RN who has worked in behavioral health for many years and uses her nursing skills and knowledge of addition when dealing with patients. I can’t say enough nice things about her.
Annandale is owned and operated by Remy and her husband Darryl, who has also been working in the field for 30 years. You can expect outstanding clinical care in a program that is family owned.
Annandale is owned and operated by Remy and her husband Darryl, who has also been working in the field for 30 years. You can expect outstanding clinical care in a program that is family owned.
Alan Coe
03:26 26 Jan 24
Fantastic Rehab with intelligent, compassionate, and knowledgeable staff. This is easily the best facility in all of Los Angeles. Remy is the kindest and most supportive person I have ever met.
Samantha Myles
03:02 07 Dec 23
First class medical detox - the level of experience, compassion and care is unmatched. They are a hands-on, genuine team who truly treats their clients like their own family. Brendan and Remy have been a pleasure to work with. I would send my own family members to Elevate Wellness Center.
Morgan Vandewater
16:34 07 Apr 23
Elevate is a wonderful place. Treatment is tailored to each individual and the staff is absolutely wonderful. I would highly recommend this place for residential treatment. It is an incredibly calming and motivating environment to recover in.
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Our Medical & Clinical Treatment Team
Annandale Behavioral Health offers a highly experienced and trained treatment team to help you or your loved one safely detox from substances and design a customized aftercare plan to maintain sobriety. Our comprehensive treatment team includes Case Managers, Individual Therapists, RNs, LVNs, Psychiatrists, and more.
Darryl Olivier
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Remy Olivier, RN
Founder and Program Director
Jennifer Bembry
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
Eric Bembry
Founder and Chief Financial Officer
Tour Our Addiction Treatment Facility
Annandale Behavioral Health is located in a contemporary farmhouse situated on the sprawling grounds in one of Pasadena’s most beloved neighborhoods. This intimate recovery setting has just six beds, allowing for a higher level of care within a safe, supportive treatment environment. The park-like setting features beautiful gardens and an outdoor fireplace that enhances the serene atmosphere.
191052AP
Exp. 07/31/26
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