These Unusual Types of Therapy Have Proven Benefits

Farm animal therapy, nature therapy, music therapy, art therapy ... Here's how they can help.

Let's take five minutes to see this week in a new light. By Wendy Rose Gould & Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief Top of Mind Unusual Types of Therapy With Proven Benefits     Though we often think of therapy as a somewhat straightforward approach to helping us move through our emotions, past experiences, and current struggles, the field can actually be quite dynamic. What works for one person may not be the best approach for another, and certain issues may require a less traditional methodology, as well. These four atypical types of therapy are worth exploring if you want to branch away from, or enhance, a standard approach.   Therapists are knowledgeable in treating relationship problems, self-esteem, anger management, or simply helping people manage daily stressors."  — GERALYN DEXTER, LMHC   Art Therapy Art therapy was formalized in the 1940s and is rooted in the concept that creative expression fosters mental well-being. Unlike a traditional art class, art therapy is less about working toward a finished product and more about enjoying the experience of creation. Additional creative therapies exist, as well, including dance therapy, drama therapy, and writing therapy. Farm Animal Therapy We know from anecdotal experience that spending time with an animal can help us feel calmer and happier. Research also tells us that animal-assisted therapy can be a complementary approach to traditional therapies, especially for those with mental illness. Even robotic pets can be helpful. Farm animal therapy takes that same concept by creating interactions between farm animals and people. Music Therapy As its name denotes, music therapy utilizes music to help improve mental health. It may include singing, dancing, listening, or even talking about music. It's led by a credentialed therapist and its benefits include improved memory and communication, stress management, and pain reduction.   Sand Tray Therapy Sand tray therapy is a combination of art therapy and play therapy that involves "playing" in a box of sand. Though this therapy approach is commonly used with adolescents, it can also be helpful for adults and teens. The idea is that, when in a safe space, people can creatively use the sand tray to find solutions or understand themselves better. Research has found that it can also help reduce psychological distress while increasing emotional expression.   On the Bright Side Ways to Stay Positive This Week Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body  This week, take 15 minutes to explore the variety of therapies out there and write down one or two that appeal most to you. It might be sound therapy, farm therapy, dance therapy, or an example we listed above. Explore that option in your area and determine whether it's something you'd like to pursue. The Wellness & Wanderlust podcast helps demystify wellness trends while teaching you ways to make small changes in your lives that create meaningful impact. Each episode features experts eager to dive into a wide range of topics. Even without a structured environment, exploring a new creative hobby can help regulate your stress levels. Try something like coloring (Catty Press Mindfulness Coloring Book), painting (Canvas by Number), or gardening. If you'd like to explore more ideas for coping with emotional challenges in your life, these seven self-help books could be a good place to start.     This Week on The Verywell Mind Podcast   On tomorrow's episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I talk with author Dr. William Miller. Tune in to hear him explain how to embrace indecisiveness and promote change in your life.    Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts / RSS Read These Next The Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy READ NOW Why You Should Try Nature Therapy READ NOW An Overview of Conventional Types of Therapy READ NOW Spread the Light Share the newsletter with someone you know to make their day a little brighter. SHARE We're open to suggestions! If you have any feedback about this newsletter, let us know at feedback@verywell.com.     You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Healthy Mind newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here. If someone forwarded you this email, you can subscribe here!   A DOTDASH BRAND 28 Liberty Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10005   © 2022 Verywellmind.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy