Nature sessions?

One of the therapy session formats that ITC offers is nature sessions. 

There are many scientific studies that support the benefits of spending time in nature. This is simply because of its ability to improve our overall mood, self-esteem, and even help to reduce blood pressure (1). 

For many mental health disorders, stress can be a primary component, either causing the development of the disorder or worsening previous ones. When we are outdoors, most, if not all, of our senses are stimulated. This stimulation of our senses can have a positive effect on physical health, such as our immune system, and on mental health, such as our sense of freedom. As I previously mentioned, there have been countless studies into nature-based therapy and the positive impact of these sessions. It can increase self-esteem, decrease depression, increase motivation, improve social interactions, and more. Additionally, spending time in nature can, over time, help a person feel more connected to it, which can further improve overall mental well-being (2). 

Personally, I have always felt connected to nature, whether it's sitting outside watching the wildlife or listening to a thunderstorm roll through. Nature sessions with ITC can be conducted while sitting on a bench, on the grass, or walking on available trails. 

Based in SE Michigan, the nature sessions will be offered at local parks such as Sterling State Park, Elizabeth Park, Crosswinds Marsh, and more. If nature sessions are something you may be interested in, this can be explored during the free consultation. 



(1) Gladwell VF, Brown DK, Barton JL, Tarvainen MP, Kuoppa P, Pretty J, Suddaby JM, Sandercock GR. The effects of views of nature on autonomic control. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2012 Sep;112(9):3379-86. doi: 10.1007/s00421-012-2318-8. Epub 2012 Jan 21. PMID: 22270487.

Joschko L, Pálsdóttir AM, Grahn P, Hinse M. Nature-Based Therapy in Individuals with Mental Health Disorders, with a Focus on Mental Well-Being and Connectedness to Nature-A Pilot Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Jan 25;20(3):2167. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20032167. PMID: 36767534; PMCID: PMC9914984.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Community Clothing Closets

About ITC

Clinicians: Social Work Continuing Education Information