WHAT IS ECOTHERAPY?
​The connection between humans and nature has very ancient roots. Spending time immersed in nature helps clear the mind, improve mood, and reduce stress. At the same time, you will also benefit from talk-based therapy in a natural setting.
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HOW ECOTHERAPY HELPS
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Ecotherapy is based on the belief that a connection to nature has a profound effect on a person’s wellbeing. In your Ecotherapy sessions, your counsellor helps you engage with your natural surroundings and facilitating a deeper understanding of your inner self.
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WHY ECOTHERAPY?
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If you're considering seeing a counsellor for the first time, it’s natural to feel apprehensive about sitting across from and opening up to someone you don’t know.
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Face-to-face counselling can be intimidating, especially when feeling vulnerable. Some clients find it easier to talk while walking. If that’s your case, Walk & Talk Therapy might be a great option. Instead of facing your counsellor in a practice room, you will have your session somewhere in nature. The calming action of movement helps to ground you and make you feel more comfortable.​
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ECOTHERAPY OPTIONS
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I offer two Ecotherapy options: Walk & Talk Therapy and Therapy in the Park. Both options use the natural environment to enhance your therapeutic experience, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
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Walk & Talk Therapy
Walk & Talk Therapy involves engaging in conversation while walking through the park. This approach combines the benefits of physical exercise with Ecotherapy, making it ideal for those who prefer an active, dynamic setting and feel constrained by traditional counselling rooms.
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Therapy in the Park
Therapy in the Park, on the other hand, is particularly suited for those whose mobility might pose an issue, allowing for a comfortable and accessible therapeutic experience. Your counsellor will find a quiet and private area suitable for your therapy session. This method provides a tranquil, natural setting where you can practice mindfulness and connect with nature. It
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WALK & TALK THERAPY
In Walk & Talk Therapy, we explore your inner world while walking through the park or around a lake.
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This approach combines the benefits of nature, exercise, and therapy. Many clients find it particularly suitable if they feel uncomfortable in a traditional counselling room or are looking to incorporate more physical activity into their routine.
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Walking often helps ease anxiety and foster relaxation, making it easier to open up, while being in nature provides opportunities for reflection.
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WALK & TALK THERAPY IS FOR YOU IF
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You prefer not to sit in a room for your counselling session
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You feel nervous about traditional counselling settings
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You find it challenging to talk in professional environments
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You enjoy being in nature and feel more comfortable outdoors
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You want to incorporate more exercise into your routine
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You need a flexible option, such as when bringing your baby in a pram
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WALK & TALK THERAPY BENEFITS
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Releases tension and stress
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Improves your connection with nature
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Facilitates inner exploration in an informal setting
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Increases mental clarity
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Stimulates endorphins release, lifting your mood
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Boosts the immune system
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Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
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Lowers blood pressure
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Enhances feelings of calmness
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Alleviates loneliness
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By combining the calming effect of nature with the therapeutic benefits of talking, Walk & Talk Therapy and Therapy in the Park offer a unique and effective way to work through your emotions while enjoying beautiful surroundings.​
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BEFORE WE START
Initial consultation and assessment
Before starting your Ecotherapy journey, we’ll have an initial face-to-face meeting at my Girrawheen office to determine which therapy style suits you best.
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During this first session, you will fill out Intake forms and sign the agreements, we will assess the suitability of Ecotherapy for your needs and discuss your goals. If Walk & Talk Therapy or Therapy in the Park seems appropriate, we can arrange a subsequent session at a nearby park.
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Both types of therapy sessions last 75/90 minutes.
Are you interested in the healing aspects of nature and Ecotherapy? ​
I offer a 15-minute online consultation so you can get a feel for my approach.