Humans have an inherent psychological and physiological connection with nature, rooted in our evolutionary history. Spending time in natural environments promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being. Nature-informed therapy recognizes this connection and utilizes nature as a powerful tool to promote well being and growth.

Five Ways Nature Based Therapy Can Help Youth Thrive

Child lying in leaves with eyes closed. They represented the balance and relaxation that nature based therapy can bring to a child. Our clinicians can help if you live near Severna Park, MD

1) Get in Tune with your Senses

Engaging in nature-informed therapy provides numerous therapeutic benefits that are hard to replicate in traditional indoor settings. The multi-sensory experience of being in nature stimulates our senses, awakening a sense of wonder and mindfulness. The soothing sounds, captivating scents, and vibrant views of the natural world promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. Natural elements can also be brought into the office setting to provide opportunities to connect with nature. Youth who engage with nature can increase self-awareness and facilitate presence in everyday experiences.

2) Enhance Emotional Resilience

Nature based therapy offers a unique setting for building emotional resilience. The challenges presented by the natural environment, such as hiking or changes in weather, provide individuals with opportunities to face and overcome obstacles. This fosters a sense of accomplishment, boosts self-confidence, and develops resilience, which can be transferred to other areas of life.

Child sitting in a field. Watching the sunset. They represent the balance and mindfulness that can be achieved through nature based therapy. Our clinicians can help if you live near Severna Park, MD

3) Develop Mindfulness

Nature-informed therapy allows individuals to experience a deeper connection with themselves and their environment. Youth are encouraged to be present in the moment, promoting a state of mindfulness. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce negative thoughts, increase self-awareness, and cultivate a greater sense of overall calm.

4) Restore Balance

Modern life often leaves youth feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, and out of balance. Nature-informed therapy serves as a means to restore this balance, allowing individuals to disconnect from technology, reconnect with nature, and ultimately reconnect with themselves. The natural world provides an environment conducive to self-reflection and personal growth. Spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce stress, leading to improved mental well-being.

Hands holding a yellow flower. Participating in nature based therapy fosters well-being and a deeper appreciation for the environment. Our clinicians can help if you live near Severna Park, MD

5) Increase Environmental Awareness

Participating in nature-informed therapy not only benefits individuals but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly behaviors. Through nature based therapy, youth are encouraged to acknowledge, appreciate and care for the land that provides for them.

Connect your child with nature today!

If you feel like you (or your child) would benefit from developing the skills and tools mentioned above, it could be time to consider nature-informed therapy. We know this may sound like a big step. However, it's often the big steps that help the most.

Dr. Lindsay Clendaniel has worked with many children, adolescents and young adults in and around Severna Park, MD. Through the lens of nature based services, she has helped address many types of concerns. And, she has helped kids navigate a variety of experiences. Dr. Clendaniel takes the time to get to know each child and family in order to tailor nature based therapy to your child’s needs. All this, with the goal to provide effective tools and solutions using a nature based approach.

Want to learn more about Nature-Informed Therapy? Visit our Nature Informed Therapy service page to learn more.

Begin Nature Based Therapy in Maryland

Starting therapy can come with a lot of questions. Dr. Lindsay Clendaniel would be honored to support you in finding answers. You are the expert on your child. Truly, you know them better than anyone else in the world. And right now, you are concerned. We encourage you to trust your instinct as a parent or guardian and begin the process of finding your child and family the support you need to make this a little bit easier.

We offer nature-informed therapy from our Severna Park, MD-based therapy practice. To start your therapy journey, follow these simple steps:

Contact Thinking Tree Psychology
Meet with a trained child and family therapist
Start receiving the support your child deserves

Other Services Offered At Thinking Tree Psychology

Our mental health professionals offer services to support the entire family. Maybe you are looking for therapy for one of your children now, but our psychologists understand that multiple members of your family may be struggling in their own way. Our Severna Park, MD-based psychotherapy practice offers a variety of mental health services. Other services provided include psychoeducational testing, family therapy, anxiety treatment, therapy for chronic illness, and pain management. Feel free to visit our FAQ page for additional questions, or our therapy overview page.

5 Benefits of Nature Based Therapy