In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks - John Muir
Nature Therapy in
Nova Scotia
Reconnect with Yourself Through Nature Therapy
Step outside and experience the healing power of the natural world. Nature therapy combines the benefits of counselling with the calming, restorative effects of being outdoors. Whether walking in the woods, sitting by the ocean, or simply breathing fresh air, nature can help reduce stress, improve mood, and foster deeper self-awareness. Let’s take therapy beyond four walls—your path to healing might begin under open skies.
FAQs About Nature Therapy
So what exactly will we do during a nature therapy session?
Nature therapy sessions take place outdoors, often in a quiet natural setting like a park, trail, or beach. We’ll begin by setting an intention for the session and then walk or sit together, allowing the natural surroundings to support our conversation. The pace is slow and mindful—you don’t need to be physically fit or outdoorsy to participate.
We will be taking in nature with all of our senses (maybe taste not so much!). Depending on your needs and preferences, we might incorporate grounding exercises, breathing techniques, or mindfulness practices. Nature often helps ease anxiety and open up reflection in ways that can feel more spacious than a traditional office setting. You’re always encouraged to go at your own pace, and we’ll discuss what feels most comfortable for you.
Do I need to be physically fit to engage in nature therapy?
This is not a fitness walk. Depending on where we choose to go for your nature therapy session we may walk a short distance, or we may walk very little. We might find a place to sit.
Can’t I just go out into nature myself? Do I really need to have a therapist do this with me?
Spending time in nature on your own can be incredibly healing—and I encourage it! However, nature therapy with a trained therapist offers something different: a supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and patterns while being grounded by the natural environment. I’m there to guide the process, help you make sense of what comes up, and support deeper insight, healing, and growth. You may learn new skills and techniques in your session that you can then go and implement on your own.
It’s not just about being in nature—it’s about using nature intentionally within the therapeutic relationship to help you feel more connected, calm, and understood.
How long is a nature therapy session?
Nature therapy sessions are typically 50 minutes, just like a standard counselling session. However, longer sessions (75–90 minutes) can be arranged if you’d like more time to walk, reflect, or settle into the natural space. We’ll always plan the length based on what feels most supportive for you.
Where will we have our nature therapy sessions?
Nature therapy is currently offered in Cumberland County, Nova Scotia at various locations. Sessions may be at the beach, in the woods, or in a park. For those with mobility limitations, it may be possible to have the session in your own backyard*.
Nature therapy is also offered in Truro, Nova Scotia at Victoria Park.
Safety for both of us is a top priority. We will not be going to remote locations and sessions are not available after dark..
*subject to availability
What if we see someone I know while we’re outside?
Your privacy is very important. If we run into someone you know during a nature therapy session, I will follow your lead. I won’t introduce myself as your therapist or share any information about why we’re together. You’re welcome to acknowledge me however you feel comfortable—or not at all. We can also talk ahead of time about how you’d like to handle these situations, so you feel prepared and supported.
Will this be like a nature walk where we identify mushrooms, plants, birds, etc?
I really love the outdoors and if I could I would, but a lot of the time I couldn’t begin to tell you what plant, mushroom, or bird we’re looking at! So, no…I will not be identifying the flora and fauna during these sessions! (Although, I can offer a recommendation for someone who can do this type of thing if that is what you’re looking for!).
What if the weather is bad on the day I’ve scheduled my nature therapy session?
If the weather isn’t suitable—due to heavy rain, strong wind, extreme temperatures, or other conditions that make it uncomfortable or unsafe—we’ll either switch to a virtual session, or reschedule, depending on what works best for you. Your comfort and safety always come first, and we’ll plan ahead together as needed.
How is nature therapy different than walk-and-talk therapy?
While both nature therapy and walk-and-talk therapy take place outdoors, nature therapy places a deeper emphasis on the healing relationship between humans and the natural world.
Walk-and-talk therapy is essentially traditional talk therapy held while walking—usually in a park or along a trail. The focus remains primarily on conversation and the therapeutic relationship, with the walk simply offering a more relaxed and dynamic setting.
Nature therapy, on the other hand, intentionally incorporates the natural environment as an active part of the healing process. It may include mindfulness practices, sensory awareness, grounding techniques, or quiet moments of reflection that draw on the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the natural world. Nature becomes a co-therapist, helping to calm the nervous system, deepen insight, and foster connection—not just with yourself, but with something larger.
Can I schedule a one-off nature therapy session, or do I need to commit to ongoing sessions?
You’re welcome to book a one-time nature therapy session if you’re curious to try it out or just need a single session for grounding and reflection. There’s no pressure to commit to ongoing therapy. However, if you find it helpful, we can always explore continued sessions together. Some choose a mix of virtual sessions, nature therapy sessions, and/or walk-and-talk sessions. It’s all about what feels right for you.
How do I book a nature therapy session?
A free 15 minute virtual consultation is required before booking your first nature therapy session. This ensures that you understand what you are and aren’t signing up for. You get a chance to ask any questions and bring up any concerns. In addition to nature therapy I also see clients virtually, so nature therapy is only available on certain days at certain times. If you decide to book a nature therapy session we will use this time to decide when and where our sessions will take place.