Our Background
Jennifer and Derek live in a small town outside Portland, OR and they both are native to the PNW. They met on a blind date where there was an immediate connection. Since their first date in 2015 they bonded over their mutual connection to the outdoors, adventuring, and Reggae music. They have welcomed a beautiful daughter together and have dreams of living in Hawaii.
Jennifer has professional studied Counseling Psychology and has spent the past 10 years dedicated in mental health and substance use recovery. Derek has a passion for learning all things wilderness and has spent much of his adult life immersing himself in outdoor sports, hobbies, and adventures that change with the season. Together they bring you PNW Therapy Adventures since 2024. They now curate outdoor therapeutic opportunities to share their passion for the outdoors, and help others find healing through collaborating with nature.
Why Choose Nature Based Therapy
Choosing nature-based therapy, also known as ecotherapy or green therapy, offers several unique advantages for individuals seeking mental health support and personal growth. Here are three compelling reasons to opt for nature-based therapy
Holistic Healing
Nature-based therapy takes advantage of the healing properties of the natural world to address mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Unlike traditional therapy settings, which often take place indoors, nature-based therapy sessions occur outdoors in natural environments such as parks, forests, or gardens. This immersion in nature allows individuals to connect with their surroundings on a deeper level and experience the therapeutic benefits of fresh air, sunlight, and green spaces. By integrating elements of mindfulness, eco-awareness, and sensory engagement, nature-based therapy offers a holistic approach to healing that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit.
Connection to the Natural World
Many people find solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging in nature. Nature-based therapy provides an opportunity to cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world and tap into its restorative powers. Engaging with the sights, sounds, and textures of the outdoors can evoke feelings of awe, wonder, and humility, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with the broader web of life. For individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, spending time in nature can offer a much-needed reprieve from the pressures of modern life and provide a source of comfort and renewal.
Embodied Experience and Mind-Body Intergration
Nature-based therapy emphasizes embodied experience and mind-body integration, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical sensations, emotions, and cognitive processes. Activities such as walking, hiking, gardening, or simply sitting quietly in nature encourage individuals to tune into their senses, attune to their bodies, and cultivate mindfulness in the present moment. This somatic approach to therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who feel disconnected from their bodies or who prefer experiential learning over traditional talk therapy. By engaging in outdoor experiences that promote relaxation, grounding, and sensory awareness, clients can develop greater self-awareness, resilience, and emotional regulation skills.
