Humanistic Therapy for Addiction: Definition, Techniques, Application, and Effectiveness

Humanistic therapy involves understanding a person’s experiences, emotions, and perspectives to promote personal growth. It focuses on the individual’s unique potential rather than just treating symptoms, encouraging self-awareness and self-acceptance as key components of healing. Rather than treating symptoms alone, it encourages understanding and empowerment, which leads to a 30% higher rate of sustained sobriety compared to conventional treatment methods.

The core principles of humanistic therapy revolve around the inherent worth of each individual, the importance of self-awareness, and the pursuit of personal growth. Key techniques of humanistic therapy include client-centered therapy, which fosters an empathetic and non-judgmental environment. Gestalt therapy helps individuals become aware of their present experiences and unresolved conflicts, and existential treatment addresses life’s meaning and personal responsibility. 

Humanistic therapy benefits by creating a space where individuals feel valued, promoting emotional exploration and self-awareness crucial for overcoming addiction. This approach improves emotional regulation, self-esteem, and purpose, equipping individuals with the skills to manage addiction. According to Medical News Today (2023), success rates for humanistic and experiential therapies in substance abuse treatment range from 30% to 60%, based on study and context.

What is Humanistic Therapy for Addiction?

Humanistic therapy is a type of psychotherapy that emphasizes personal growth, self-actualization, and an individual’s capacity for self-healing, as defined by the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. 1999, “Brief Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse.” 

Originating in the mid-20th century, this therapeutic model was developed as a response to the limitations of traditional psychoanalysis and behaviorism. Central to humanistic therapy is the belief that individuals have an innate capacity for self-healing and personal development. 

The humanistic approach fosters a therapeutic relationship characterized by empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It aims to create an environment where clients explore their true selves and address the underlying issues contributing to their addiction, according to Scholl M. B. et al. 2014, “Humanistic Counseling Process, Outcomes, and Research.” The core objective of humanistic therapy lies in creating the client’s subjective experience and encouraging self-exploration as a means of overcoming addiction, according to WebMD. 2023, “What is Humanistic Psychology and Humanistic Therapy?”

Unlike other therapeutic approaches that focus more on symptom management or behavioral change, humanistic therapy emphasizes the client’s personal experiences and intrinsic potential for growth, according to the American Psychological Association (APA). 2009, “Different approaches to psychotherapy.” This perspective distinguishes it from approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, which prioritize cognitive restructuring or insight into unconscious processes. Humanistic therapy aims to empower individuals by helping them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their values, thus facilitating meaningful change and recovery, as discussed by Medical News Today. 2023, “Humanistic therapy: Benefits, cost, and more.”

Historical Background of Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to psychoanalytic and behaviorist approaches. Carl Rogers introduced the person-centered approach in the 1950s, focusing on the therapeutic relationship to foster personal growth and self-actualization, as detailed by Rogers C. et al. 1951, “Client-Centered Therapy.” Abraham Maslow contributed with his theory of self-actualization and hierarchy of needs, emphasizing the pursuit of personal growth after meeting basic needs, as explained by Maslow A. et al. 1954, “Motivation and Personality.”

The model has since integrated techniques from Gestalt therapy, existential therapy, and experiential therapy, expanding its applicability and effectiveness, according to the American Psychological Association. 2016, “Humanistic Psychotherapies: Handbook of Research and Practice.” Key milestones include the formation of the American Association for Humanistic Psychology in 1961 and ongoing research into humanistic therapies, according to Greenberg L.S., 2010, “Research on humanistic-experiential psychotherapies.”

Theoretical Foundations of Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy is grounded in several core theories, including self-actualization, personal growth, and hierarchy of needs. These theories emphasize strengthening the inherent potential within individuals, provide a framework for understanding the therapeutic process, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the therapy. The focus is on helping clients achieve their fullest potential and address their inner needs in a supportive and empathetic environment, according to Andrew M. Bland A. M., Derobertis E. M., et al. 2017, “The Humanistic Perspective in Psychology.”

The following are the 3 theoretical foundations of humanistic therapy: 

1. Self-Actualization: This concept, introduced by Abraham Maslow, refers to the realization of an individual’s potential and the pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment. According to Maslow, self-actualization is the highest level of psychological development, where individuals seek to achieve their true self and purpose in life, as mentioned by Healthline, 2020, “Self-Actualization: What It Is and How to Achieve It.”
2. Personal Growth: Humanistic therapy emphasizes the importance of continuous personal development and self-improvement. It encourages clients to explore their values, beliefs, and aspirations, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-discovery according to Mia M. Maurer M.M. et al. 2023, “What is the process of personal growth? Introducing the Personal Growth Process Model.”
3. Hierarchy of Needs: Maslow’s hierarchy outlines a progression of human needs, starting from basic physiological needs and moving through safety, love and belonging, esteem, and finally, self-actualization. This hierarchy provides a framework for understanding how addressing fundamental needs leads to higher levels of psychological growth and well-being, according to WebMD 2022, “Maslow’s Hierarchy Of Needs: What Is It?”

How Does Humanistic Therapy Work for Addiction Recovery?

Humanistic therapy works by examining each individual’s emotions, beliefs, and motivations to foster self-awareness and meaningful transformation. This approach prioritizes a deep understanding of the client’s personal experiences and perspectives, which is essential for effectively addressing addiction, according to Block, M. et al. 2011, “Humanistic Therapy.” Through this process, clients are encouraged to explore their inner world, uncover underlying issues, and develop a clearer sense of self, all of which are integral to their recovery journey. Approximately 25% of patients undergoing humanistic therapy are successful in managing addiction symptoms better, according to a study by Elliott, R. 2002, “The effectiveness of humanistic therapies: A meta-analysis.”

The therapist-client relationship plays a central role in humanistic therapy. It is characterized by an empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive environment that fosters trust and openness, according to Herman SM. et al. 1998, “The relationship between therapist-client modality similarity and psychotherapy outcome.” This relationship allows clients to feel understood and accepted, which is essential for effective therapeutic work. The therapist’s role is to facilitate this process by providing unconditional positive regard and actively listening to the client’s experiences, according to Psychology Today. 2022, “Humanistic Therapy.”

Specific techniques used in humanistic therapy include:

Client-centered Therapy

Client-centered therapy focuses on providing a supportive environment where clients freely express their feelings and explore their sense of self. This technique encourages clients to take an active role in their healing process, promoting self-discovery and personal growth, according to  Kabir R., Yao L. et al. 2023, “Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian Therapy).” 

Existential Therapy

Existential therapy, on the other hand, addresses fundamental questions about life, meaning, and personal responsibility. It helps clients confront and work through existential issues related to their addiction, such as a sense of purpose or the search for meaning in their lives, as discussed by Vos J. et al. 2023, “Existential psychological therapies: An overview of empirical research.”

What are the Key Techniques in Humanistic Therapy for Addiction?

The key techniques in humanistic therapy for addiction include client-centered therapy, gestalt therapy, and existential therapy. Client-centered therapy creates a supportive and empathetic environment that encourages clients to explore their thoughts and feelings freely, fostering self-awareness and personal growth, according to Healthline, 2016, “Client-Centered Therapy for Depression.” Gestalt therapy helps individuals gain awareness of their present experiences and resolve unresolved conflicts, facilitating emotional healing and insight into the factors contributing to their addiction, according to Positive Psychology, 2020, “Gestalt Therapy Explained: History, Definition, and Examples.” Existential therapy supports individuals in creating a fulfilling life, which is crucial for sustained recovery, according to Positive Psychology, 2023, “Existential Therapy: Make Your Own Meaning.”

The 3 key techniques in humanistic therapy for addiction include:

1. Client-Centered Therapy  

Client-centered therapy is a key technique in humanistic therapy that helps clients express their emotions and experiences. This approach is characterized by creating a non-judgmental and empathetic therapeutic environment where clients feel safe to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, according to the book by Obembe S. B et al. 2012, “Practical Skills and Clinical Management of Alcoholism & Drug.” 

Pros:

The pros of client-centered therapy are as follows:

• Safe Therapeutic Environment: Client-centered therapy creates a non-judgmental and empathetic environment where clients freely express their innermost thoughts and feelings, which is crucial for emotional exploration and healing. According to Obembe S. B. et al. 2012, “Practical Skills and Clinical Management of Alcoholism & Drug,” the therapist provides unconditional positive regard, fostering a supportive space for clients.
• Facilitates Self-Exploration: The approach involves active listening and reflective responses, helping clients gain clarity and insight into their emotions. If a client struggles with guilt and shame, reflecting on these emotions helps them process their feelings better, as noted by Kabir R., Yao L., et al. 2023, “Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian Therapy).”

Cons:

The cons of client-centered therapy are as follows:

• Dependence on Therapist’s Skill: The effectiveness of client-centered treatment is heavily reliant on the therapist’s ability to provide genuine empathy and unconditional positive regard. Inconsistent application impacts treatment outcomes.
• Limited Structure: The lack of structured techniques is not suitable for all clients, especially those who require more directive approaches for addiction recovery, as discussed in Psychology Today, 2022, “Person-Centered Therapy.

2. Gestalt Therapy

Gestalt therapy focuses on helping clients become aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the present moment. Developed by Fritz Perls, this approach emphasizes experiential learning and self-discovery through various techniques designed to heighten clients’ awareness of their current experiences, as mentioned in Psychology Today. 2022, “Gestalt Therapy”. The therapy involves activities like role-playing, guided fantasy, and the “empty chair” technique, where clients engage in dialogue with a person or aspect of themselves represented by an empty chair, according to WebMD. 2024, “How Does Gestalt Therapy Work?”

Pros:

The pros of Gestalt therapy are as follows:

• Enhanced Emotional Insight: Gestalt therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness and experiential learning, which helps clients become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This heightened awareness facilitates deeper self-understanding and emotional resolution, according to Psychology Today, 2022, “Gestalt Therapy.”
• Effective Techniques for Unresolved Issues: Techniques such as the “empty chair” help clients address unresolved conflicts related to their addiction, leading to greater emotional insight and effective coping strategies, as explained by Orfanos P. et al. 2021, “A Critical Perspective of the Gestalt Therapeutic Approach.”

Cons:

The cons of Gestalt therapy are as follows:

• Potential for Overwhelm: The experiential techniques used in Gestalt therapy are sometimes overwhelming for clients who are not ready to confront deep-seated emotions or unresolved issues, potentially leading to increased distress.
• Variable Outcomes: The effectiveness of Gestalt therapy varies significantly based on individual client readiness and the specific application of techniques, as mentioned by Psychology Today, 2022, “Gestalt Therapy.”

3. Existential Therapy

Existential therapy addresses fundamental issues related to existence, meaning, and personal responsibility. This therapeutic approach focuses on helping clients confront existential concerns such as the search for purpose, the inevitability of death, and the need for individual responsibility. By exploring these profound aspects of human existence, clients gain a deeper understanding of their addiction and its underlying causes, as mentioned by Hoffman H. P  et al. 2013, “Existential Therapy, Culture, and Therapist Factors in Evidence-Based Practice.”

Pros:

The pros of existential therapy are as follows:

• Focus on Meaning and Purpose: Existential therapy addresses fundamental issues such as the search for meaning and personal responsibility, which is transformative for clients struggling with addiction. It helps clients explore how their addiction impacts their sense of purpose and individual values, facilitating meaningful behavioral changes, as discussed by Vos J. et al. 2023, “Existential psychological therapies: An overview of empirical research.”
• Enhanced Self-Awareness: By confronting existential dilemmas, clients develop a greater sense of purpose and personal responsibility, which are crucial for sustained recovery. This approach promotes enhanced self-awareness and emotional resilience, according to Positive Psychology, 2023, “Existential Therapy: Make Your Own Meaning.”

Cons:

The cons of existential therapy are as follows:

• Complexity of Existential Issues: Exploring profound existential concerns can be challenging for clients who find it difficult to engage with abstract concepts such as the meaning of life and personal responsibility.
• Need for Skilled Facilitation: Effective existential therapy requires a high level of skill from the therapist to help clients navigate complex existential issues, which always be accessible or effective for all individuals, as noted by Hoffman H. P et al. 2013, “Existential Therapy, Culture, and Therapist Factors in Evidence-Based Practice.”

What are the Benefits of Humanistic Therapy for Addiction Treatment?

The benefits of humanistic therapy include expression and regulation, self-awareness, and personal growth, according to Levy J. et al. 2021, “Benefits of Humanistic Therapy + How It Works.” The study shows that humanistic therapy fosters emotional expression and regulation by providing a safe space for individuals to explore and articulate their feelings, leading to improved emotional control and resilience. 

Furthermore, this therapeutic approach enhances self-awareness and personal growth, helping clients gain a clearer understanding of their behaviors and motivations. By addressing these deeper aspects of their experiences, individuals are better equipped to manage their addiction and pursue meaningful, long-term recovery, as endorsed by Medical News Today. 2023, “What is humanistic therapy?” A review of humanistic and experiential therapies for substance abuse found that these approaches achieve success rates ranging from 30% to 60%, depending on the study and context of “Emotion-Focused Therapy: A Clinical Synthesis.”

The major 2 benefits of humanistic therapy for addiction treatment are as follows:

Emotional Expression and Regulation

Humanistic therapy significantly aids clients in expressing and regulating their emotions, which is crucial for effective addiction treatment, according to the book Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse, 1999, “Chapter 6 –Brief Humanistic and Existential Therapies.” According to the book, this therapeutic approach emphasizes creating a safe and empathetic environment where clients freely explore and articulate their feelings. For instance, in client-centered therapy, therapists actively listen and provide unconditional positive regard, encouraging clients to express their emotions openly without fear of judgment. This process helps individuals gain insight into their emotional states and develop healthier ways to manage and regulate their feelings.

Humanistic therapy helps clients handle their emotions and express and regulate them 11% more, according to Elliott R. et al. 2002, “The effectiveness of humanistic therapies: this meta-analysis.” this meta-analysis of 86 studies on the effectiveness of humanistic therapies suggests that focusing on emotional expression and regulation, humanistic therapy helps clients address the root causes of their addiction, leading to more sustainable recovery outcomes.

Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

Humanistic therapy facilitates deep self-reflection and exploration, helping individuals understand the underlying factors contributing to their addiction. This approach is essential for uncovering emotional and psychological issues that might be driving the addiction, which is necessary for effective and lasting recovery. It is critical because it empowers clients to gain valuable insights into their behaviors, values, and life goals, fostering significant personal growth. Enhanced self-awareness and a sense of purpose help individuals make meaningful changes, supporting a more comprehensive and enduring recovery process.

Clients undergoing humanistic therapy experience significant personal growth as the therapy promotes self-discovery and empowerment, according to a finding published in HealthLine 2019, “Is Humanistic Therapy Right for You?”. It suggests that clients who participated in Gestalt therapy and client-centered therapy demonstrated increased self-awareness and a greater sense of purpose, which facilitated their recovery process and helped them build a more meaningful life.

What are Humanistic Therapy Programs for Addiction?

Humanistic therapy programs for addiction recovery incorporate core components such as individual and group therapy sessions, experiential exercises, and personal growth activities, according to Block, M. et al. 2011, “Humanistic Therapy.” These programs include client-centered therapy, which emphasizes creating a non-judgmental space for clients to express their feelings, and Gestalt therapy, which focuses on present-moment awareness and emotional integration, as explained by the American Psychological Association. 2016, “Humanistic Psychotherapies: Handbook of Research and Practice.” According to APA, humanistic therapy programs feature workshops and retreats that facilitate deep self-reflection and exploration of personal values to help recover from substance use disorder. 

Program Structures

The humanistic therapy program structure is defined as a flexible and client-driven framework that promotes self-discovery and personal growth and facilitates deep personal exploration and healing. These programs include a combination of individual and group therapy sessions, each with distinct formats and durations, as discussed by Stephen Joseph S et al. 2008, “Humanistic and integrative therapies: the state of the art.”

Individual therapy sessions usually last 50 to 90 minutes and focus on personalized treatment, while group sessions range from an hour to two hours, according to Andrew M. Bland A. M., Derobertis E. M., et al. 2017, “The Humanistic Perspective in Psychology.”

These sessions include exercises designed to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal skills and encourage peer support and feedback. Additionally, many programs incorporate workshops and retreats, which last from a day to several weeks, according to Walters S. T. et al., 2005, “Effectiveness of workshop training for psychosocial addiction treatments: A systematic review.” These extended formats offer intensive experiences aimed at personal growth and healing through immersive activities, experiential learning, and group interactions.

What are the Key Components of Humanistic Therapy Programs?

The key components of humanistic therapy programs include individual therapy, group therapy sessions, and workshops. Each plays a vital role in the therapeutic process, as mentioned in the book Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse, 1999, “Brief Humanistic and Existential Therapies.” According to the author, in the following key components of humanistic therapy programs, the clients work one-on-one with therapists to explore personal issues, develop self-awareness, and set goals for recovery:

• Individual Therapy: Individual therapy sessions involve one-on-one sessions between the client and therapist, focusing on personalized treatment goals and self-exploration. Techniques such as client-centered therapy and Gestalt therapy are employed to help clients explore their emotions, beliefs, and motivations, according to Psychology Today. 2022, “Humanistic Therapy.” 
• Group Therapy: Group sessions offer clients the opportunity to engage with others who are experiencing similar challenges. These sessions facilitate shared learning, peer support, and collective problem-solving, according to the American Psychological Association 2019, “Psychotherapy: Understanding Group Therapy.” These sessions include exercises designed to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal skills, and they encourage peer support and feedback. Activities include role-playing, group discussions, and experiential exercises designed to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal skills. 
• Workshops and Retreats: Additionally, many programs incorporate workshops and retreats, which last from a day to several weeks, according to Walters S. T. et al. 2005, “Effectiveness of workshop training for psychosocial addiction treatments: A systematic review.” These extended formats offer intensive experiences aimed at personal growth and healing through immersive activities, experiential learning, and group interactions.

What are the Challenges and Controversies in Humanistic Therapy for Addiction?

The challenges and controversies in humanistic therapy for addiction are primarily due to its reliance on subjective client experiences, which complicates measurement and standardization. This subjectivity makes it difficult to evaluate effectiveness rigorously and leads to variability in treatment outcomes. Additionally, the holistic, less medicalized approach of humanistic therapy conflicts with mainstream healthcare policies and evidence-based practices, creating integration challenges and inconsistent insurance coverage.

Humanistic therapy faces several challenges and controversies in addiction treatment as follows:

Subjectivity and Measurement Issues

Subjectivity in humanistic therapy refers to the heavy reliance on clients’ personal experiences and self-reflections, which makes it difficult to standardize or measure compared to more structured treatment models. This reliance on personal insight and self-reporting complicates rigorous evaluation of effectiveness. Critics argue that this subjectivity leads to variability in treatment outcomes and does not align with evidence-based practices preferred in addiction treatment, as noted by Psychology Today 2014, “Humanistic and Positive Psychology.”

Integration with Mainstream Healthcare Policies

Integration with mainstream healthcare policies refers to the alignment of treatment approaches with established standards and practices endorsed by the broader healthcare system. It includes an emphasis on evidence-based, pharmacological treatments for addiction, such as the use of medications and structured therapeutic models that are widely accepted and funded. The holistic and less medicalized approach of humanistic therapy conflicts with prevailing healthcare policies that emphasize evidence-based, pharmacological treatments for addiction. This divergence hinders the integration of humanistic therapy into mainstream addiction treatment programs, according to WebMD 2023, “What is Humanistic Psychology and Humanistic Therapy?”

Insurance Coverage and Financial Barriers

Insurance coverage refers to the extent to which health insurance plans reimburse the costs of medical treatments, including therapy services. Financial barriers are obstacles that prevent individuals from accessing treatment due to high out-of-pocket costs or lack of insurance support. Inconsistent insurance coverage for humanistic therapy creates financial barriers for individuals seeking this type of treatment. The lack of standardized guidelines and recognition within the broader healthcare system means that many people face challenges in accessing humanistic therapy due to financial constraints, as highlighted by WebMD 2023, “Humanistic therapy: Benefits, cost, and more.”

What is the Future of Humanistic Therapy for Addiction?

The future of humanistic therapy for addiction looks promising, including advancement in the integration of humanistic therapy with emerging technologies, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, according to the American Psychological Association, 2022, “Future directions in research on humanistic psychotherapy.” It indicates that these technologies could enhance therapeutic techniques by providing immersive environments for clients to explore and address their addiction issues in novel ways.

Another significant trend is the growing emphasis on personalized and integrative approaches, according to Clarke P. B. et al. 2022, “Integrating the models of addiction into humanistic counseling for individuals with substance use disorders.” This study demonstrates that as the understanding of addiction becomes more nuanced, humanistic therapy is increasingly being combined with other therapeutic modalities to create tailored treatment plans. This integrative approach aims to address the multifaceted nature of addiction more effectively, leveraging the strengths of humanistic therapy while incorporating evidence-based practices.

Ongoing research also focuses on validating the effectiveness of humanistic therapy through rigorous clinical trials and longitudinal studies, as mentioned by WB Stiles WB et al. 2002, “Future directions in research on humanistic psychotherapy.” The study highlights the potential of humanistic therapy to improve self-awareness and emotional regulation, which are key factors in sustaining recovery. 

What Should I Expect in a Humanistic Therapy Session?

You should expect a structured yet flexible approach tailored to your individual needs. The session begins with an initial assessment, where the therapist gathers information about the client’s background, current challenges, and therapeutic goals, according to the book Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse, 1999, “Chapter 6 –Brief Humanistic and Existential Therapies.” This is followed by goal-setting, where the client and therapist collaboratively establish objectives for the therapy. This book suggests that during the intervention phase, the therapist should use techniques such as client-centered therapy, Gestalt therapy, or existential therapy to facilitate self-exploration and emotional expression. The intervention techniques include active listening, reflective questioning, and exercises designed to enhance self-awareness and personal growth. 

How Long Does Humanistic Therapy Take?

The duration of humanistic therapy varies widely, ranging from 12 to 24 weeks, depending on several factors, including the complexity of the client’s issues, the goals of therapy, and the individual’s progress, according to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, “What is humanistic therapy?” On average, clients engage in humanistic therapy for several months to a year, with sessions typically occurring weekly. For less severe issues or initial therapeutic stages, shorter-term therapy lasting a few months is sufficient, while more complex or long-standing problems require extended treatment periods. Factors influencing the length of therapy, according to HealthLine 2019, “Is Humanistic Therapy Right for You?” include the client’s level of engagement, the specific therapeutic techniques employed, and the presence of co-occurring conditions. Some clients achieve significant progress within a few months, sustained recovery, and deeper self-exploration benefits from longer-term engagement.

How Does Humanistic Therapy Differ from Other Therapy Approaches?

The main difference between humanistic therapy and other therapeutic approaches is that humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth, self-actualization, and the individual’s inherent potential. Unlike cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which primarily focuses on altering specific thought patterns and behaviors, humanistic therapy prioritizes understanding and fostering the client’s overall self-awareness and emotional expression, according to Verywell Mind, 2023, “What Is Humanistic Therapy?” This approach is rooted in the belief that people are naturally inclined toward personal growth and healing when provided with the right conditions.

In contrast to psychodynamic therapies, which delve into unconscious processes and past experiences, humanistic therapy focuses on the present moment and the client’s current experiences; according to Positive Psychology, 2023, “Existential Therapy: Make Your Own Meaning,” This approach is less concerned with uncovering repressed memories and more interested in exploring and enhancing the individual’s conscious experience and personal values. 

Additionally, while traditional therapies utilize a more directive role, where therapists provide specific guidance, humanistic therapy is characterized by its client-centered approach, according to Positive Psychology 2014, “Humanistic and Positive Psychology.” In this approach, the therapist facilitates rather than directs the therapeutic process, fostering a supportive environment for self-discovery and personal growth.

What are the Main Benefits of Humanistic Therapy for Addiction?

The main benefit of humanistic therapy for addiction is it enhances emotional expression and regulation, according to the book Interventions and Brief Therapies for Substance Abuse, 1999, “Chapter 6 –Brief Humanistic and Existential Therapies.” According to the book, humanistic therapy provides a safe space for clients to explore and manage their feelings. This approach also promotes self-awareness and personal growth, which are crucial for understanding the underlying causes of addiction and fostering long-term recovery. Clients experience improved self-esteem and better coping strategies as a result of humanistic therapy. These benefits contribute to a more holistic and effective addiction treatment process.