Nature based Counselling

Nature-based counselling, also known as ecotherapy or outdoor therapy, is a therapeutic approach that integrates the healing power of nature and the outdoors into the counselling process. It recognizes the interconnectedness between human well-being and the natural world, and leverages the positive effects of spending time in natural environments to promote mental, emotional, and psychological healing.

Nature-based counselling can take various forms, including individual therapy sessions, group activities, workshops, and retreats, all of which occur in natural settings like forests, mountains, beaches, or other outdoor environments. We often incorporate nature-related activities such as sauntering, bushwalking, sit spots, meditation, and artistic expression into their sessions.

Key principles of nature-based counseling include:

Connection to Nature: Nature-based counselling emphasizes the importance of connecting with the natural world as a means of reducing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Proponents believe that spending time in nature can have a grounding and calming effect on individuals.

Mindfulness: Engaging with nature encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness. Clients are encouraged to pay attention to their surroundings, their senses, and their feelings, fostering a deeper connection to themselves and their environment.

Metaphors and Symbolism: Natural elements and processes often serve as metaphors for the challenges and transformations that clients are experiencing in their lives. Exploring these metaphors can lead to insights and personal growth.

Embodiment: Nature-based counselling often encourages clients to engage their bodies in the therapeutic process. This might involve physical activities, relaxation exercises, or simply becoming more attuned to bodily sensations while in nature.

Cultivating Resilience: Nature-based counselling can help clients develop a sense of resilience by connecting them with the resilience observed in natural ecosystems. This can inspire clients to develop strategies for coping with life's challenges.

Environmental Awareness: This approach can also foster a greater sense of environmental awareness and sustainability. Clients may develop a stronger sense of responsibility for taking care of the natural world, leading to a more holistic view of well-being.