Alternative practitioners?

This is a tough question to answer. First off, I think most 'alternative' practitioners would agree that there is no 'right' or 'best' way to treat depression (or any other condition for that matter) and that treatment is highly individualized depending on the person.

That being said, I think that many TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) practitioners, who give herbs and acupuncture treatments, would say that they have had success in treating some of the symptoms as well as the underlying energetic imbalance (qi) that can cause depression.

Ayurveda practitioners can also offer herbs to help the dosha (personal constitutions) imbalances that might be causing depression symptoms.

Herbalists can also offer herbal treatments that can aid in treating the symptoms (like insomnia, mood swings, eating/digestive issues, muscle tension and general malaise).

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained just like MDs (and can prescribe pharmaceutical drugs should this be necessary) but will often opt for more natural treatments (including a discussion around diet) first.

Also, physical therapists, message therapists, energetic workers (like reiki practitioners), psychotherapists and many other people can help in your treatment of depression even if they don't fall into your idea of a practitioner. The best thing to do is to seek help, and be self-reflective in how the process and treatments are or are not working for you. No one can tell you the right answer or what is the best treatment; its up to you to figure out what works for YOU. How empowering eh?

Also wanted to point out that MDs practicing something called 'Functional Medicine' will take a more holistic approach though they may not term it as such. Look up 'functional medicine practitioners' to learn more!