A Sanctuary for the Soul: How Creative Recovery LA is Reshaping Healing
BY CORY B. SAVAGE, CADC i / CEO / FOUNDER, CREATIVE RECOVERY LA
PHOTO BY ZIV SADE
I’ve lived the story so many in our community know by heart: the struggle with addiction, the mental health challenges, and the pain of societal rejection. As an LGBTQ+ individual, my journey taught me that true healing begins when we see each person’s unique story, not just their symptoms. At Creative Recovery LA, we’ve built a sanctuary where that belief is our foundation.
When clients walk through our doors, they’re often carrying the weight of trauma—anti-LGBTQ+ violence, sexual assault, religious ostracism—and grappling with a longing for acceptance. Our trauma-informed approach creates a safe, judgment-free space where they can finally uncover those suppressed experiences and discover their authentic selves.
We begin with a simple, radical truth: you have inherent value from the start. Many arrive believing they must earn their worth, but we show them it’s already theirs. For our LGBTQ+ clients, this means tackling internalized stigma and community biases through personalized therapy. For others, it’s exploring grief or addiction through our holistic continuum of care.
And that’s where creativity becomes the key to unlocking the soul.
I know firsthand that healing is about more than just overcoming pain; it’s about rediscovering one’s inherent value and building a life of purpose.
In our state-of-the-art music studio, clients collaborate with music industry professionals, transforming their pain into art. We teach photography, empowering them to capture their journey through a new lens. Our horticulture program offers lessons in nurturing through the care of rare orchids, and our cutting-edge Atmos surround sound studio uses audible software to analyze missing frequencies in the voice, providing innovative emotional relief. By using these creative modalities, we guide clients toward a vibrant life where their authentic selves shine.
THE HEARTBEAT OF OUR TEAM
The care we provide is only as strong as the people behind it. Our team is a dynamic blend of LGBTQ+ members and dedicated allies, all bringing a wealth of professional and personal expertise. Many hold advanced degrees in clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, and social work. Our clinicians are specifically trained in trauma-informed care, minority stress, and gender-affirming practices, with certifications from organizations like the Trevor Project.
Our creative arts therapists are credentialed in art, music, and expressive arts, allowing them to address complex issues with a sensitivity and skill that’s deeply rooted in understanding. This diversity empowers us to challenge norms and foster complete healing, helping our clients confront internal biases and embrace their inherent value.
SPECIALIZED GROUPS FOR AUTHENTIC SELVES
We understand that healing is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer specialized therapy groups for exploring gender identity and sexual orientation when our clients need it. These groups are designed as safe, affirming spaces where individuals can process suppressed experiences and find the courage to embrace who they truly are.
Central to our approach is the Conscious Recovery format by TJ Woodward, a mindfulness-based framework that helps clients address the root causes of their pain. This approach empowers them to uncover deeper truths and build resilience, whether they’re navigating religious ostracism or grappling with mental health struggles.
A HOME OF HEALING AND ACCEPTANCE
Our Transitional Living Home, Hillock House, is more than just a residence; it’s a sanctuary built on respect. We ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all gender identities and sexual orientations with clear anti-discrimination policies, gender-neutral facilities, and staff trained in inclusive care. More importantly, Hillock House fosters a sense of shared humanity. We teach residents to build community with those who differ from them, united by a common thread of healing.
One of my favorite examples of our creative therapies in action involves a client who arrived at our program burdened by past traumas. Through our music studio, they worked with industry professionals to create original music. This process gave them a safe space to express themselves and, in doing so, they reclaimed their inherent value. The music didn’t just heal—it gave voice to their identity and resilience.
A VISION FUELED BY LIVED EXPERIENCE
My lifelong journey—surviving sexual violence, navigating broken family systems, and seeking spiritual connection after religious ostracism—has shaped my commitment to Creative Recovery LA’s mission. I know firsthand that healing is about more than just overcoming pain; it’s about rediscovering one’s inherent value and building a life of purpose.
We all deserve happiness and acceptance. We all hold great value. I want to show our clients that life after recovery is vibrant and boundless. Through career counseling, budgeting workshops, and curiosity-driven fitness like yoga and group hikes, we empower every person to heal fully, embrace their worth, and weave a tapestry of creativity, connection, and spiritual renewal that transforms lives and communities.
Join us and follow our journey on Instagram @CreativeRecoveryLA, where healing becomes a celebration of who we are meant to be.
For more info visit: www.Creativerecoveryla.com
