How can I make my car stop overheating without replacing the head gasket?

What is your question?

My car was leaking water onto the ground and overheating within the first few minutes of running. I was told to replace the water pump/timing belt so I did. It was still leaking water and the mechanic found a hold in one of the lines and patched it. It is still running hot and the mechanic says its a problem with the pressure and I need to replace the head gasket. Does that sound right? Is there any way around it?