Top-Rated Alternative Recovery Programs for Anxiety in Arizona

However, living with an ongoing anxiety disorder is exhausting and severely impacts a person's ability to function and enjoy their life.

A growing number of therapy centers are offering alternative recovery programs with a holistic focus. If you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one with anxiety, explore the top options to consider in Arizona.

Methodology for Selecting Alternative Recovery Programs for Anxiety in Arizona

Programs included in this list were assessed across a number of criteria, including:

• Scope of alternative therapies: Programs must adopt a holistic approach to treatment, using therapies that address underlying causes, rather than just symptom management. Programs offering only mainstream treatments were excluded from the list.
• Evidence-based practices: Programs using evidence-based alternative therapies were prioritized.
• Qualified staff: Centers must employ licensed therapists, counselors or other mental health professionals.
• Individualized treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's needs.
• Wellness practices: Centers that incorporate nutrition, sleep and exercise into their programs were prioritized.
• Accommodation standards: Residential accommodation must be safe, comfortable and in a supportive setting.
• Client reviews and testimonials: These were assessed for overall client satisfaction.

8 Best Alternative Recovery Programs for Anxiety in Arizona

Dropout rates from standard anxiety therapies are high, with up to 22% of participants abandoning cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Luckily, there are alternatives. These options represent Arizona's top-rated alternative recovery programs for people with anxiety.

1. The Sanctuary at Sedona

The Sanctuary at Sedona is a pioneer in holistic treatment for mental health, trauma and addiction disorders. Its residential, 30-day program uses scientifically backed integrative therapies to treat anxiety at a body, mind, soul and spirit level. It stands out among top-rated alternative recovery programs for anxiety in Arizona due to its wide range of options and its holistic integration of treatments.

To calm symptoms, the Sanctuary uses a blend of psychiatry, bodywork, natural supplements and anti-inflammatory nutrition. Holistic treatments then seek to discover the core wound in the energetic field that lies behind the anxiety. Guests stay in elegant rooms on the secluded 22-acre campus, surrounded by natural beauty as they heal.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
• Mindfulness-based therapies
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
• Ketamine-assisted therapy
• Ecotherapy
• Energy medicine
• Breathwork
• Creative therapies
• Spiritual therapy
• Brain laser therapy
• Biofeedback

2. Cottonwood Tucson

Situated near Tucson International Airport, Cottonwood Tucson is an inpatient holistic health center that offers treatment for anxiety disorders. A variety of personal, group and family-based workshops help with coping strategies and stress management techniques, while guided yoga and hiking help to improve mood.

Cottonwood is situated on a private, peaceful campus and staffed by medical and holistic experts. Through individualized care plans and nutritional support, the center aims to treat the whole person, not just symptoms.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Exposure therapy
• EMDR
• Yoga and meditation
• Art and music therapy
• Equine therapy
• Somatic experiencing
• Spiritual therapy

3. Fountain Hills Recovery

Fountain Hills Recovery is a luxury rehab facility that specializes in mental health treatment. Situated near McDowell Mountain Regional Park, guests stay in upscale residences for their recovery. The anxiety program involves one-on-one therapy as well as group therapy and medication-assisted treatment.

The facility has a high staff-to-client ratio and a strong sense of community. Customized treatment plans ensure that each resident receives therapy tailored to their needs, alongside nutritious meals and the beauty of nature.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation
• Equine therapy
• Music therapy
• Fitness classes
• Yoga
• EMDR

4. Hope and Healing

Situated in Scottsdale, Hope and Healing offers personalized treatment and therapy for adults managing anxiety. The center emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies with wellness practices. Each client receives a customized support plan tailored to their unique goals and needs.

Culturally sensitive and community-informed care makes this a good choice for Indigenous individuals. Medication-assisted therapy is available for those who require it, and family counseling is also an option.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Integrated trauma therapy
• Yoga and meditation
• Art and journaling therapy
• Nature therapy
• Equine therapy
• Somatic therapies
• Spiritual and cultural wellness

5. Wolf Creek Recovery

Wolf Creek Recovery, located in Prescott, provides comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment. It offers a range of programs, including residential, intensive outpatient and aftercare services. The center's approach to anxiety involves addressing underlying issues and co-occurring disorders. The residential program offers comfortable, homey accommodations.

This facility distinguishes itself through its focus on dual diagnosis treatment. Family therapy is available, and Wolf Creek Recovery also offers on-site sports and golf amenities. The center aims to treat disorders at the mind, body and spirit levels.

Available therapies include:

• EMDR
• Brainspotting
• CBT
• Outdoor therapy
• Camping
• Individual and group therapy

6. Sierra Tucson

Sierra Tucson is a renowned residential treatment center specializing in mental health, addiction and trauma recovery. It offers a comprehensive and integrated approach, blending evidence-based therapies with experiential modalities, all set amid a serene desert vista.

The center is known for its long-standing reputation, experienced staff and diverse range of therapies, providing a holistic healing environment. Treatment for mood disorders is based on a biopsychosocial-spiritual foundation.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Adventure therapy
• Psychodrama
• Somatic experiencing
• Yoga
• Equine therapy
• Psychotherapy
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation

7. Rock View Recovery

Situated in Scottsdale, Rock View Recovery is a luxury residential center offering comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment services. It provides a range of programs, including residential, outpatient and aftercare support. The center's approach to anxiety blends traditional treatments with mindfulness practice and stress management techniques.

Surrounded by scenic beauty, the center's holistic focus incorporates diet, exercise and sleep as well as therapy. Individual and group therapy sessions help clients make the most of all the center has to offer.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• Mindfulness
• Yoga
• Art therapy
• EMDR
• Somatic experiencing
• Equine therapy
• Psychotherapy

8. The Meadows

The Meadows is located in Wickenburg and is a well-known treatment center, specializing in trauma and mental health recovery. It offers a comprehensive approach to anxiety treatment, addressing underlying issues and promoting emotional healing. Treatment aims to address immediate symptoms while also building healthy coping skills for long-term relief.

The on-site Brain Center offers advanced biofeedback techniques to help better regulate emotions, while nutritional counseling ensures that you can start to heal from the inside out.

Available therapies include:

• CBT
• EMDR
• Somatic experiencing
• Equine therapy
• Yoga
• Mindfulness
• Spirituality counseling
• Emotional Freedom Technique

How Common Are Anxiety Disorders?

In the U.S., 19.1% of the adult population in any given year is living with an anxiety disorder. There are three main types:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder

It is common to have co-occurring depression. Additionally, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are closely related to anxiety and may co-occur.

The Limitations of Traditional Anxiety Treatments

By knowing the limitations of traditional treatment, you can make an informed judgment about which alternative therapies might best suit your situation.

Anxiety disorders are typically treated with a combination of talk therapy - usually CBT - and medication. These evidence-based treatments work well for many people. However, almost one in five people drops out of therapy before completion, and treatment response can vary dramatically from one individual to another, likely due to symptom severity, personality or co-occurring conditions.

There are a number of reasons why an individual may find mainstream treatments either ineffective or undesirable:

Side Effects From Medication

Medications commonly prescribed for anxiety, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, can have a range of side effects that impact quality of life. These may include weight changes, sexual dysfunction, insomnia and gastrointestinal issues. In some people, these medications can exacerbate feelings of agitation, panic and restlessness, or the desire to self-harm.

Benzodiazepines like Xanax, which are also commonly prescribed, can have dangerous interactions with other medications or alcohol. Side effects can include hallucinations, racing thoughts or risky behavior. They can also have very unpleasant withdrawal effects for up to twelve months after treatment cessation.

Lack of Long-Term Relief

Interventions such as CBT are designed to be short-term and goal-focused. While they do help many people initially, they are not inherently intended to provide long-term improvements. CBT can also involve a lot of "homework" for the person in therapy. For those already feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, this may feel like an additional stressor rather than a solution. CBT may be more effective when used in conjunction with alternative options, as is the case in many alternative recovery programs.

Managing Symptoms Rather Than Addressing Causes

While CBT and similar therapies can provide effective short-term coping strategies, the focus on rational thinking may overlook the deeper emotional root causes of anxiety. Some people also believe that viewing their condition as a problem to be fixed is counterproductive, preferring instead to accept it as part of who they are, while not allowing it to negatively impact their life.

Any of these reasons may lead to an interest in a more holistic, integrative approach to anxiety recovery, either instead of or alongside mainstream treatment.

How Do Alternative Anxiety Recovery Programs Work?

Each of the recovery programs mentioned has its own unique blend of therapy modalities. Many of these are also evidence-backed and have been shown to be effective for people managing anxiety disorders. Options may include:

Mindfulness

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy blends mindfulness with CBT and has been shown to be effective in reducing worry for those with generalized anxiety disorder. A systematic review also found that mindfulness, when practiced on its own, improves emotional regulation and coping skills, leading to better outcomes.

Yoga and Exercise

Exercise-based interventions have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety levels - many alternative programs integrate these methods into their daily routine.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and electroacupuncture have been shown to quickly reduce anxiety symptoms, whether or not the person is taking medication.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements

This is a specialist area of its own, so you should always consult a health care professional before using supplements if you are taking medication or have preexisting health conditions. However, some herbs show great promise for anxiety treatment. Chamomile, for example, was found to be as effective as medication, without the dangerous side effects.

Traditional Chinese herbal medicine has also been found to work as well as or better than conventional treatments, with fewer adverse effects.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a therapy technique that uses sensors to give real-time feedback about physiological processes, such as heart rate, muscle tension, brain waves and skin temperature. The goal is to learn to control these processes and thus lessen the physical symptoms of anxiety. Research is ongoing, but one study shows that anxiety levels were statistically reduced following biofeedback therapy.

Expressive Therapies and Animal-Assisted Therapies

Alternative recovery programs often incorporate a wide range of other therapies, such as art therapy, which can improve nonverbal communication and mood, and therapy with animals, such as horses. Research into equine therapy is ongoing, but early results show that it is effective in improving emotional regulation for people with substance use disorders. Many people find animal-assisted therapy profoundly moving, which may be beneficial in itself.

Spiritual Therapy

Research into the therapeutic benefits of spirituality is ongoing. However, results are promising - one study found that spiritual therapy significantly reduced anxiety in women with breast cancer, as did ACT, another option commonly available in alternative recovery programs.

Embracing Holistic Healing for Anxiety Recovery

Anxiety disorders present complex challenges. While traditional treatments offer relief for many, you are not alone in seeking a more holistic path to recovery. By understanding the limitations of conventional methods and exploring evidence-based alternative therapies, individuals can seek treatment that addresses the root causes of their anxiety.

Whether through mindfulness, movement, creative expression or innovative therapies, the key lies in finding a program that aligns with your needs and values. The top-rated alternative recovery programs for anxiety in Arizona have a lot to offer. Embracing these pathways can empower you to reclaim your life and cultivate lasting emotional resilience.

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