When most people think about mental health counseling, they conjure images of people lying on sofas and talking through their problems. While this model of therapy can be effective for some, the mental health counseling field has diversified in recent years in an effort to make therapy more effective.

If the thought of being confined in an office is unappealing, you may want to consider turning to one of these three alternative types of counseling in the future.

1. Art Therapy

Some people might find it difficult to imagine art as a form of therapy, but research has shown that art therapy can be very beneficial. This form of counseling is especially helpful when treating younger patients, who might not have the vocabulary needed to express their emotions. Art therapy can also be a great way for those who suffer from abuse to work through difficult problems without reliving the abuse by talking about it again. Art therapy has even been shown to be effective when treating people who suffer from bipolar disorder.

If you don't want to engage in traditional talk therapy, you may want to explore the ways in which art therapy can help you improve your mental health.

2. Light Therapy

Exposure to bright light has been used to treat people with seasonal affective disorder for a number of years, but this alternative treatment has recently been shown effective in treating other mental and emotional disorders as well. Those with bulimia nervosa or depression can also benefit from light therapy.

Patients who choose to engage in light therapy undergo sessions where they are exposed to intense levels of light. As long as the patient stays within the confines of the lighted area, normal activity can continue. This makes light therapy an excellent choice if you have very little time in your schedule for traditional talk therapy.

3. Wilderness Therapy

Perhaps one of the most exciting forms of mental health counseling, wilderness therapy gives patients the opportunity to engage in a unique form of group therapy. Since the wilderness cannot be manipulated, obstacles that are encountered must be overcome through teamwork. This group dynamic can be especially helpful for those patients who suffer from social anxiety disorders, or those who struggle with obsessive compulsive disorders.

If you are looking for a way to gain mental clarity and improve your social skills simultaneously, then participating in wilderness therapy may be a good option for you.

The emergence of new and unique therapeutic models is making it possible for those who suffer from mental or emotional disorders to find the help they need. If you are looking for an exciting way to overcome your problems, consider participating in art, light, or wilderness therapy in the future. For more information, contact a facility like Center for Change of Florida.