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Jamal Ahmelich is a registered clinical counsellor through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. His philosophy of therapy is that the client/counsellor relationship is of utmost importance in promoting change and as such, always uses a client centered, strengths based approach.
Latest posts by Jamal Ahmelich (see all)
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What is it about nature that just makes us feel good? From breathing in fresh ocean air, smelling the various scents of the forest, a warm breeze flowing through the mountains… there is just something about it.
Those good feelings of time spent in natural environments are becoming more well known for their mental health benefits and in response to that, therapists have begun to harness nature’s restorative capacity by challenging convention and offering therapy outdoors.
What does Nature-Based Therapy look like?
The concept of Nature-Based Therapy combines the inherent benefits of being in nature with a benefits of a therapy session with a trained counsellor. Nature is viewed as a healing partner in the counselling process. While different therapists will conduct Nature-Based sessions differently, the concept is similar. Therapy in an outdoor, natural setting. This could look like a walk and talk session down a forest path, sitting by a lake or walking a trail and applying metaphors from the natural environment to their current life situation. The natural setting acts as a third partner in the healing process.
Benefits
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Nature-Based Therapy is an effective means to boost mental wellness and has many psychological, physiological, and social benefits.
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Lower blood pressure and can lower stress levels . Research shows that exposure to nature will have profound impact in the decreasing of cortisol levels
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Research also points to increased resilience, improved self-esteem and increased capacity to engage socially with other members of their community and society at large.
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Natural light, fresh air, exposure to trees and plants seem to improve many people’s outlook on life in a positive manner.
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One positive aspect of a Nature-Based approach for when an individual is depressed involves how people often retreat into indoor spaces, isolating themselves from the world around them. Using nature based therapy can help people to receive the benefits of being outdoors while still engaging in therapy in a less intimidating environment than a traditional office setting.
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The calming effect of nature makes it the perfect backdrop for a counselling session.
Nature Based Therapy offers an effective alternative to traditional counselling. Get out there and get some fresh air.
