Outdoor Play Therapy

 We are very fortunate to have our private practice in the heart of the Botanical Gardens at the Treehouse Community Wellness Centre.

Once a therapeutic relationship has been developed between a child and therapist (and upon consultation with parents/caregivers), then when the need requires we can take the sessions outdoors and into these beautiful gardens.

* Please be mindful that this is not suitable for all children and will only be considered on a case by case basis

 A nature-based play therapy session utilises similar principles and methods as an office-based play therapy session; however, this therapeutic approach involves using nature and outdoor environments as a setting for therapeutic interventions with individuals.. 

This type of therapy combines the benefits of being in natural surroundings with the principles of play therapy to promote emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development. 

The natural environment is believed to have a calming and grounding effect on individuals, which can facilitate the therapeutic process. Nature's beauty, sensory experiences, and open space can help reduce anxiety and stress. 

Natural surroundings offer various sensory experiences, such as feeling the breeze, listening to the sounds of nature, and experiencing different textures. These sensory experiences can be used to engage clients and facilitate emotional expression. 

Research supports the fact that children who engage in unstructured natural outdoor experiences can:

• decrease behavioural issues and depression

• settle a dysregulated nervous system

• increase mental clarity

• increase self-confidence and acceptance

• enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills

 plus more!