Nurtured in Nature

Service Description

There is an innate human desire to connect with nature, yet urbanization and technology often distance people from the natural world. Studies estimate that, per day, children spend over seven hours on screens and less than ten minutes engaging in unstructured outdoor play. Research is supporting the healing power of nature more all the time with the connection between the health of people and the health of the Earth as inseparable. For children, interaction with nature enhances creativity and vitality, attention and focus, and an overall sense of well-being. Many child and family therapists are looking to grow in confidence and competence in best practices and culturally sensitive approaches when integrating nature into their work. This workshop will equip therapists with the theoretical basis of nature-based child therapy as well as the significant research findings on this approach. Participants will have an opportunity to explore case studies illustrating how nature has been incorporated into the practice of child therapists and other clinicians. Ethical implications of nature-informed therapy will be discussed, along with how to navigate the unique challenges that may arise when doing therapy with child clients in natural settings. Additionally, participants will learn how nature-based child therapy activities can be adapted for group or family therapy settings. Through this experience participants will leave with a solid foundation on how to support their clients in developing a stronger sense of self, connection to their peers and community, and connection to nature.