Children sometimes have difficulty expressing themselves in words, especially if they have been abused or neglected, or are suffering from a mental illness or emotional disorder. This can make traditional "talk" therapy difficult. Many children find it easier to express themselves through Experiential Therapy, which includes art, music, dance, and recreation therapy, as well as pet-assisted and equine therapy.

EMQ's Experiential Therapy program is available for children who are already receiving other EMQ services.

A sampling of EMQ Experiential Therapy programs includes:

• Recreation Therapy - using art, drama, games, problem solving and sports to teach important life skills.
• Art Classes- led by an artist-in-residence who teaches the children about painting and drawing, which provide a creative outlet for feelings of joy, sorrow, anger and alienation.
• Pet Assisted Therapy - applying the therapeutic value of animals to help some children EMQ serves.
• Summer Swimming - including recreational swimming and swimming lessons for children enrolled in EMQ's 24/7 and day treatment programs.

Every session includes an opportunity for children to discuss skills they've learned and how to transfer these skills to other areas of their lives. Between 70 and 100 children participate in the program each week.

» Barry's Story: An Experiential Therapy Story of Healing

• How does a child receive services from this program?
  Experiential Therapy is only available for youth already receiving another EMQ service. Youth who are accessing other EMQ services may also be referred to Experiential Therapy to enhance their care.
  
  
• How do I get more information?
  For referral to the program, call EMQ Client Services at (408) 379-3796.