OUTDOOR ECOTHERAPY

The Earth is not a problem to be solved; it is a living being to which we belong. The Earth is part of our own self and we are part of its suffering wholeness. Until we go to the root of our image of separateness, there can be no healing. And the deepest part of our separateness from creation lies in our forgetfulness of its sacred nature, which is also our own sacred nature.

-Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee

Ecotherapy is about actively incorporating our relationship with nature into the therapy process. It’s based on the idea that we are fundamentally interconnected with the natural world, so focusing on our relationship with nature is a vital part of a holistic approach to well-being. Whether meeting clients at my office or online, I try to bring nature into every therapy session in one way or another—acknowledging the cycles of nature, connecting with plants or nature objects in the room, using nature-based metaphors and imagery, etc. I also offer outdoor sessions for clients who want to bring the therapy process into nature. Click on the options below for more details.

  • I offer outdoor ecotherapy sessions year-round on Fridays. Most of these sessions take place at Hoyt Arobretum on nature trails that wander through redwood, spruce, pine, fir, and cedar trees. Other locations may include Forest Park and Tryon Creek State Natural Area.

  • Outdoor ecotherapy sessions last approximately 60 minutes and include elements of “walk and talk” therapy with nature-based awareness and embodiment practices. We’ll begin and end at the trailhead and make mindful transitions so you feel grounded and ready to go about your day.

  • Outdoor ecotherapy sessions involve light physical exercise and occur on clearly marked trails that are rated easy or moderate for accessibility. Quiet locations off the beaten path may also be available for dropping in to periods of stillness and inner focusing. I am happy to make alternate arrangements with clients who have mobility limitations.

  • Outdoor ecotherapy sessions are available on a regular or interim basis year-round, including in light rain. Appointments may be canceled or rescheduled to teletherapy in cases of extreme weather such as heavy rain, snow, or severe heat.

  • Before meeting outdoors, we’ll schedule a few sessions at my office or online. That will give us time to get to know each other, explore your questions and concerns, and make a safe transition to outdoor therapy sessions.

  • I do not accept any insurance plans directly, but you may be able to seek partial reimbursement using out-of-network mental health benefits. Please see my Fees and Insurance page for more information.

Outdoor ecotherapy sessions provide an opportunity to get away from the pace and distractions of urban life, reconnect with your true self, and cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world.

MOVEMENT

Get out of the office and into the trees! Move your body and explore accessible nature trails in Portland.

AWARENESS

Release stress and come back to your senses! Develop mindfulness with nature-based awareness practices.

GROUNDING

Connect with the earth and focus on what really matters! Explore nature as an ally through somatic resourcing.