Mental Health and Nature Therapy
Do you feel uncomfortable talking to a stranger about your personal life but you know you need help?
Sometimes traditional talk therapy isn’t enough to help us bridge the gap between thought and feeling
Nature therapy – also known as EcoTherapy can help!
Nature based therapies are an engaging and non-intimidating researched based form of therapy that makes healing feel natural and effortless, allowing self-discovery and growth to occur organically.
As a licensed therapist trained in nature based therapies, I offer a unique space where mental health therapy meets the healing powers of the natural world.
Evidenced-based therapies like CBT or DBT combined with nature based activities provides a level of insight that strengthens your internal foundations.
In our sessions we don’t just talk about the ‘weeds’ – symptoms and stressors holding you back. We focus on the “soil” – the underlying issues that bring you to seek help today.
You’ll walk away not just with a deeper understanding of your inner self, but with practical “hands on” tools to tend to your well-being every day.
Nature as Therapy – Book a Session:
What are natured based therapy sessions like?
As part of your mental health treatment plan and based on your comfort level, sessions can include activities using plants or plant materials, go on nature healing walks, practice mindfulness in nature or other nature based activities. In addition to ensuring a safe environment, the intent and purpose of the activity is carefully adapted to address therapeutic goals specific to you.
What are the Benefits of Nature Therapy for Mental Health?
Studies show that interaction with nature can significantly reduce several mental health symptoms and is increasingly recognized as an evidence-based practice that is effective in the treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia and other mental health illnesses. Additionally, it fosters resilience, self-esteem, emotional regulation, improve attention and other skills that enhance well-being.
Blending mental health therapy with therapeutic horticulture interventions are a perfect compliment for the treatment of various mental health conditions.
“Dr. Benjamin Rush, recognized as the “Father of American Psychiatry,” was first to document the positive effect working in the garden had on individuals with mental illness.
In the 1940s and 1950s, rehabilitative care of hospitalized war veterans significantly expanded acceptance of the practice. No longer limited to treating mental illness, Horticultural Therapy practice gained credibility and was embraced for a much wider range of diagnoses and therapeutic options” to include:
and more… (AHTA)
Let’s Grow Together
Types of Nature Based Therapies I Use
EcoTherapy, Therapeutic Horticulture, Nature Walks, Forest healing
What is Therapeutic Horticulture?
Therapeutic horticulture is a therapeutic modality that utilizes plants and plant related activities to enhance a person’s emotional, physical, social and spiritual wellbeing.
Therapeutic horticulture is used as a tool that intentionally focuses on plants caring for people.
How is therapeutic horticulture used in mental health therapy?
Therapeutic Horticulture for Mental Health is a tailored clinical approach for the treatment of mental health that uses therapeutic horticulture activities in the mental health treatment process.
Sessions focus on the benefits that nature provides in a confidential, structured and therapeutic environment crafted to your specific needs and guided me – a Licensed Psychotherapist & Therapeutic Horticulture Professional.
As defined by the American Horticultural Therapy Association:
“Therapeutic Horticulture
is the participation in horticultural activities facilitated by a registered horticultural therapist or other professionals with training in the use of horticulture as a therapeutic modality to support program goals. Therapeutic horticulture is the process through which participants enhance their well-being through active or passive involvement in plant and plant-related activities.”
Examples of Therapeutic Interventions: passive or active.
What are Active and Passive Interventions?
Active: hands-on, physical and direct participation with plants.
Examples of Active:Passive: experiencing or observing.
Examples of Passive:
“Healing isn’t fixing what’s broken. Its about nurturing what can grow.”
Mental Health + Nature Therapy
How to Start
Working Together:
I offer Mental Health Therapy and also Wellness Workshops, in-person & telehealth, in English & Spanish
Get Scheduled:
Book a Free discovery call
Ready to start? Have questions? Curious if therapy is right for you? I offer a complimentary chat where we can discuss your needs and how I can help.
(Ask about same day & afternoon availability)
Existing or returning client? Please log in to the client portal