by Sandra Wiebe
Why I Offer Nature Therapy: Healing Doesn’t Always Happen Indoors
As a counselling therapist — and as a woman who has walked through my own seasons of trauma and transition — I’ve come to believe deeply in the healing power of nature. For years, walking outdoors became my refuge: a way to regulate my nervous system, gather my thoughts, and make sense of the chaos within. It was during these moments in motion, under open skies, that I began to feel most connected to myself — and to something greater.
That’s why I now offer nature therapy as part of my counselling services. If the idea of sitting across from someone in a quiet room feels overwhelming, clinical, or just not quite “you,” you’re not alone. Many of us feel more at ease when walking side by side rather than sitting face to face. Nature provides a gentle backdrop for conversation and insight. It helps us breathe differently, think differently, and feel differently.
Research supports what many of us have known intuitively: movement in natural environments can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, boost emotional awareness, and even spark moments of insight and clarity. Walking therapy is especially helpful for those dealing with stress, trauma, or burnout; trauma, in particular, can get stored in the body. Moving — literally — can help shift those stuck places in a way traditional talk therapy sometimes cannot.
Benefits of Being in Nature
The benefits of walking in nature go beyond mood. The rhythm of walking supports nervous system regulation, increases blood flow to the brain, and allows the mind to settle into a more open, creative state. Many clients say they experience “aha” moments on our walks — not forced or pressured but arriving naturally through the quiet wisdom of the trees, the trail, and our shared presence.
And let’s not forget it’s just easier to be yourself outdoors. Whether it’s the wind on your face or a spontaneous encounter with wildlife, nature tends to level the playing field. It humanizes the therapy experience, for me, too. We might pause to admire a sunset, laugh at a curious squirrel, or notice how a weathered tree mirrors your current life stage. These unscripted moments often deepen connection and insight.
Walk and Talk Therapy Your Way
Nature therapy isn’t about pushing yourself physically or venturing far into the wilderness. Our sessions are gentle, collaborative, and designed to meet you where you’re at — emotionally and physically. Some clients prefer a brisk walk; others just want to sit on a bench and breathe. Both are valid. The point is not how far you go, but what you notice and feel along the way.
If you’re longing for a different kind of therapeutic experience — one rooted in movement, reflection, and natural beauty — I invite you to step outside with me. Together, let’s find clarity and calm with each step forward.
