Conversations around therapy are increasing, and more Americans are attending therapy than ever before. But when we talk about therapy, what do we really mean?

Therapy is a broad term used to describe the treatment of health conditions. In the case of mental health, therapy typically refers to “talk therapy,” or psychotherapy—a form of counseling that occurs between a professional and an individual, with the goal of relieving emotional and mental distress.

Many people with mental health symptoms begin their therapy journey in an outpatient or telehealth setting. They meet with a therapist regularly, usually weekly, to discuss their challenges, stressors, questions, concerns, and to get to the root of their mental health struggles. However, this type of engagement is not right for everyone. People facing more severe mental health symptoms, or who have experienced prolonged struggles mentally, might need an alternative.

If you’re seeking alternatives to therapy, specifically the traditional talk therapy we discussed, rest assured there are options for you. Let’s explore what these alternatives are, depending on your (or your loved one’s) individual needs.

Therapy Alternatives for Severe or Prolonged Mental Health Symptoms

Residential mental health treatment

Residential treatment is an incredibly effective alternative to therapy for people who are struggling with more complex mental health conditions. For example, recurring and persistent symptoms, co-occurring disorders, substance abuse issues, and/or an inability to carry out everyday activities can all signal a need for this type of in-depth treatment program. Residential treatment is also a great option for people who do not have access to a safe and supportive healing environment, and would benefit from inpatient care.

Residential mental health treatment involves living at the facility in which you are receiving care. These facilities are not hospitals, but rather comfortable communities or residencies in which you can receive counseling, medical support, as well as carry out hobbies and build friendships, all in one place. They offer the benefit of 24/7 watchful care and promote structured, healthy routines—inclusive of exercising, healthy meal planning, various therapy sessions, and more. Residential programs typically last between three and 12 months, depending on an individual’s needs and their progress along the way.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP)

Intensive outpatient treatment is like a bridge between psychotherapy and an inpatient program. It requires more frequent participation than traditional talk therapy models, with clients attending treatment at least 3 to 4 days per week, for a few hours each day. However, clients are able to return home after treatment, so IOP is best for individuals who have a safe and stable living environment.

Intensive outpatient programs approach treatment through a range of modalities and therapies, with each plan customized to the individual. Treatment plans may involve behavioral or skills-based therapy methods, like CBT and DBT, as well as group counseling and psychiatric care.

Holistic Therapy Alternatives

Creative or Expressive Therapy

Creative and expressive therapies are often utilized when emotions and challenges are hard for clients to communicate. These therapies encourage clients to express themselves through creative outlets and process emotions through movement, art, and sound. Common types of creative therapies include art therapy, music therapy, dance therapy, and drama therapy.

Nature-Based Therapy

Research has long connected nature, and getting outdoors, to improved mental health. Nature-based therapies build on this connection and encourage clients to heal through their natural environments. Common forms include wilderness therapy, adventure therapy, equine-assisted therapy, and ecotherapy.

Mindfulness and Meditation

For those who require healing from within, or who struggle with staying present and finding gratitude, mindfulness and meditation can be great alternative therapy methods. These practices are designed to be grounding, helping to reduce stress, rumination, and worries—in turn promoting self-connection and peace of mind.

Community-Based Support

Sometimes, healing doesn’t always happen in a one-to-one setting like traditional therapy offers. Many people benefit from a larger support network, full of peers walking in similar shoes. For those seeking mental health support, peer support groups and meetings (e.g. 12-step meetings), can be influential.

Medical Alternatives to Therapy

For more severe or chronic symptoms, psychotherapy alone is not enough. In some cases, treatment professionals might recommend medication (such as an antidepressant) to relieve difficult symptoms. Prescriptions for mental conditions are based on and backed by evidence, but if you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your healthcare or treatment provider.

Finding the Right Type of Therapy for You

There are many different types of therapy out there and available. And when you’re first getting started in your treatment journey, the options can be overwhelming. How will you know what’ll work? When should you pivot to something new? What’s recommended by the professionals?

The truth is, the answers are all individualized and require a dialogue with a professional or clinical provider. Every person is unique and will take their own path to recovery. If you’re unsure where to turn, you can always reach out to your primary care physician or call a mental health expert, like Turnbridge.

It’s also worth noting that, sometimes, one type of therapy is not effective on its own. Many people need to try multiple types of therapy, or a combination of approaches, in order to find a solution that sticks. As you explore your alternatives, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance. Turnbridge, for example, can listen to your concerns and help you come up with an action plan, if and when you are ready. Turnbridge is a mental health treatment provider offering residential and IOP programs for adolescents and young adults struggling. 

Call 877-581-1793 to learn more.