Working outside is great, most of the time.  We get to enjoy scenic views, experience interactions with plants and animals, watch the seasons change.   Some weather, though, is potentially less comfortable.  Heat, wet and cold are all conditions that happen.  If it’s safe for us to be outdoors and we’re prepared to do so, we’ll likely meet outdoors.  In the rain, that may mean sitting under cover.  In the winter, that may mean walking while we talk or warming by a fire.   When the weather requires, or when deemed necessary or appropriate, we can meet virtually or indoors at my office in Fort Washington, PA (conveniently accessible from Route 309 and Interstate 276).  For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

Outdoor therapy values experiential learning that happens when we move beyond four walls.  The risks of outdoor therapy include those inherent with the outdoors (slips, trips, falls, and exposure to the elements and insects).  There are also limitations to privacy, with the possibility that we may be seen or overheard in session.   However, many clients find that being together in nature allows them to feel more at ease, more comfortable sharing about themselves and their experience.  Sitting or walking side-by-side reduces the discomfort of “facing problems” and nature has a way of meeting you just as you are without judgement. Annie tends to these risks and limitations with preparation, thoughtfulness, and responsiveness, always with safety in mind. For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

Nature can be a source of solace, comfort and connection, and nature can also elicit challenge.   It’s not a requirement that clients have a positive relationship with nature. However, we do ask that clients have a willingness to commit to doing sessions outdoors, year-round.  This may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable to you, but part of therapy includes moving beyond comfort zones in a supported environment so you can experience growth and resilience.  Your personal and cultural history with the outdoors will be part of our assessment that will guide us.  You will always get to decide what feels right for you. For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

Outdoor therapy offers a change of scenery. This may mean experiencing therapy in spaces that are meaningful to you or having new experiences in new places. Sessions occur in public parks and in private green spaces across Northwest Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Briar Bush Nature Center, The Green Ribbon Trail, and the Wissahickon are common spaces where Annie meets clients. Therapy may also occasionally occur in the office (Fort Washington) or online. For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

Special outdoor gear is not necessary, though you will need appropriate layers for the weather. Outdoor gear for cold or wet weather may be available to borrow, as needed.  For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

We all have preferences, and that’s OK! Our perceptions of the experience of the outdoors may be relevant to the challenges that we are dealing with in life, and experiential therapy offers the opportunity to tend to this. Bugs can be a nuisance. They can look scary, bite or sting. Insects are also an integral part of ecosystems and it’s valuable to remember their role. If you have a fear or phobia of insects, please let me know. This is a workable situation, if you desire. Spending time outdoors may expose you to dirt or mud.  This is a consideration for preparation and planning.  We recognize the benefit of smelling, touching, or interacting with the Earth as beneficial for the immune system. Have a question, fear or concern that’s not been addressed?  For more details, visit the Nature-Based Therapy Page.(/nature-based-therapy)

Bring a water bottle, shoes for walking, layers for the weather, and sun protection. You are also responsible for bringing any rescue medication that you are prescribed (inhaler, epipen). You might prefer a small backpack to carry these items.

If you have out-of-network benefits through your health insurance, you may be eligible for reimbursement. I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance.  Contact your insurer to understand your benefits and determine your coverage.

I have been facilitating nature-connection with adults and children in various roles within school and community settings for 10+ years.  For the last two years, I have been integrating nature-connection into my work as a therapist.   My graduate and post-graduate training specialized in clinical and administrative application of nature-based counseling.  I’ve learned from experts and leaders in this field and I help train the next generation of nature-based therapists with Philadelphia Ecotherapy.