Life is busy. As a young person, juggling school, activities, and friends can feel overwhelming. And when life becomes overwhelming, it can feel hard to cope. Maybe you notice that you are more irritable or anxious. Maybe your body hurts. Or maybe you’re just tired. Sometimes you need a break. We can help.
Nature has a way of grounding and connecting us to the present moment, allowing us to find peace and calm amidst life's challenges. Whether it's walking in a lush forest, meditating by the ocean, or simply observing the beauty of a vibrant sunset, nature provides a therapeutic space to pause, connect and cultivate resilience. Nature-informed therapy can transform the way you cope with the world and its stressors.
What is Nature-Informed Therapy?
Nature-informed therapy is a therapeutic approach that recognizes the profound healing power of the natural world. By integrating elements of nature into the therapeutic process, such as outdoor activities, mindfulness practices, and ecotherapy techniques, this approach aims to promote emotional well-being, reduce stress, and enhance overall mental health. Nature-informed therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health concerns, as it offers a holistic approach that integrates the mind, body, and environment.
How is Nature-Informed Therapy different than traditional therapy?
Nature-informed therapy is a unique lens through with therapy is conducted. While traditional therapeutic strategies, such as cognitive and behavioral strategies, may be discussed in session, nature-informed therapy differs from traditional therapy in its intentional integration of natural environments into the therapeutic process. While traditional therapy typically occurs within the confines of an office or clinical setting, nature-informed therapy embraces the healing potential of the outdoors. The natural world becomes an active partner in the therapeutic journey, providing a dynamic and sensory-rich backdrop for self-exploration and healing. Activities such as nature walks and outdoor mindfulness meditation leverage the calming and grounding effects of nature, offering clients a unique experience. And since nature is all around us, therapeutic techniques can feel more accessible to clients as they can access them anywhere and any time.
Who can benefit from Nature-informed therapy?
Anyone! Nature-informed therapy can be beneficial for all individuals, particularly those struggling with mental health concerns, as it offers an integrative approach to connecting the mind, body, and environment. Children, adolescents, and adults can benefit from incorporating nature into their everyday lives. Nature-informed therapy offers a range of developmental, emotional, and social benefits. The natural environment serves as a dynamic and supportive space for children, adolescents and young adults to thrive, promoting overall well-being and contributing to a positive and resilient mindset. With the support of our nature-informed psychologist, Dr. Lindsay Clendaniel, youth and adults can learn how to use nature as a coping tool for tough times.
Nature-Informed Therapy can help:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Elevate mood
Improve relaxation
Increase connection with nature
Enhance presence in the moment
Calm the nervous system
Improve physical health and well-being
Enhance emotional regulation
For more information on the benefits of Nature-Informed Therapy, check out our blog about the 5 Benefits of Nature-Informed Therapy.
Examples of Nature-informed Therapy activities:
Nature walks
Outdoor mindfulness activities
Animal watching and identification
Nature journaling
Cloud watching
Nature-based art activities
Gardening
Nature appreciation exercises
Begin Nature-Informed Therapy in Severna Park, MD
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. 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.
Nature-Informed Therapy can help your child learn to cope and thrive and be themselves again! All nature-informed sessions begin at our Severna Park office. To start your therapy journey, follow these simple steps:
Meet with our nature-informed psychologist
Start helping your child get their life back
Other Mental Health Services at Thinking Tree Psychology
Nature-informed therapy is not the only service we offer at Thinking Tree Psychology in Severna Park. Thinking Tree Psychology offers a wide range of therapy and evaluation services to help children, young adults and families thrive. These include anxiety treatment, therapy for young adults, family therapy, ADHD intervention, and psychoeducational testing. We also offer telehealth therapy services as a convenient way to work with a mental health professional. Please visit our therapy overview page or psychoeducational testing page to learn more about additional services. Feel free to visit our FAQ page as well.