Nature Therapy

“When I am among the trees,
especially the willows and the honey locust,
equally the beech, the oaks and the pines,
they give off such hints of gladness.
I would almost say that they save me, and daily.”
— Mary Oliver, Evidence: Poems

The healing benefits of spending time in nature are undeniable. Intentional time outdoors can reduce stress, relieve anxiety and depression, boost your mood, boost creativity, and improve your overall physical and mental health. For nervous system regulation, nature is the best co-regulator. In practicing holistic therapy, it makes sense to include nature as a means for healing and growth.

Nature Therapy sessions could look like:

  • Walk-and-talk therapy: Like a regular therapy session, just walking outside!

  • Sit-and-talk therapy: Like a regular therapy session, just sitting outside!

  • Ecotherapy: Incorporating elements of nature and specific nature-based activities into the session itself.

  • Click here to learn more about my pricing structure.

  • Nature Therapy takes place at Pelizzari Natural Area or the Boardman Lake Trail in Traverse City.

    If you are in the Bellaire area, reach out to me about Nature Therapy at Grass River Natural Area.

  • Nature Therapy takes place on Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Traverse City. Nature Therapy can also be part of Therapy Intensives, which typically take place on Fridays.

  • Existing clients can schedule a session via the client portal or by reaching out to me. New clients must schedule a FREE 20-minute consultation to determine if it is a good fit. New clients must also complete a virtual 80-minute intake appointment prior to the first Nature Therapy session.

  • Barring any inclement or dangerous weather, Nature Therapy sessions will take place year-round, rain or shine, so dress accordingly. If there is dangerous weather in the forecast, Kat will reach out to cancel the session as soon as possible. In the wintertime, if the school district where the park resides is closed, Nature Therapy sessions will be cancelled that day.

  • Most of the chosen locations have access to a bathroom on site. Some do not. Details about the park will be sent out before your session. Reach out to me if you have questions.

  • Some of the terrain in some of these locations is not accessible to people with serious mobility limitations. However, we can still do Nature Therapy sessions! They make look a little different. Please let me know if you have any concerns and we can come up with a plan on how to address them.

  • Open to Michigan residents only.