Complementary or alternative therapies belong to the category of mind–body therapies, which seek to strengthen communication between the mind, body and spirit.  Some of these therapies may be used with psychotherapy (complementary therapies) or in place of it (alternative therapies).

Some types of complementary and alternative therapies include:

• Animal-assisted therapies. Working with animals, under the guidance of a mental health professional, can help some patients with conditions such as depression by reducing loneliness and anxiety.
  
  
• Expressive therapies (e.g., art, dance and/or music therapy). Some patients may find happiness and relaxation from these therapies, which encourage imagination and self-expression.
  
  
• Acupuncture. One of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points in the body to restore and maintain health. Acupuncture can regulate functions including heart rate, body temperature and breathing. It can also help treat insomnia and bring about positive emotional changes.
  
  
• Yoga. An ancient Indian discipline that uses breathing exercises, posture, stretches and meditation to balance the body’s energy centers.
  
  
• Biofeedback. A technique that uses electrodes to measure bodily functions (e.g., breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperature, muscle tension) and teaches patients to alter these functions through relaxation and mental imagery.
  
  
• Biologically-based therapies. These include the use of substances found in nature, such as herbs, food and vitamins. For example, St. John’s wort is an herbal supplement which may be used to treat several mental conditions, including mild to moderate depression.

These therapies may be an important resource for patients with emotional disorders or mental illnesses whose moods have been stabilized. However, individuals taking medication should talk with their physician before beginning any of these therapies, especially if treatment involves the use of herbal supplements. For example, people taking certain heart and cancer drugs or birth control pills are usually advised to avoid St. John’s wort.