Ecotherapy
Bringing therapy outdoors.
What is Ecotherapy?
Ecotherapy is similar to traditional therapy, but instead of meeting in an office, we meet outdoors in a natural setting.
Our sessions may involve walking, sitting, or simply spending time in nature together. The natural world can become an active part of the therapeutic process, offering opportunities for grounding, reflection, perspective, and connection.
Many people find that being outdoors helps them feel more present, less constrained, and more connected to themselves. Ecotherapy combines the benefits of psychotherapy with the restorative qualities of the natural environment.
A growing body of research confirms what many of us intuitively know: spending time in nature can have a positive impact on both physical and emotional well-being.
Being outdoors, moving your body, and breathing fresh air can help you feel less stuck, reduce stress, and open space for new perspectives.
Many people find that meeting outside feels more relaxed and natural than sitting in an office, making it easier to connect with themselves and engage in the therapeutic process.
Walking and other forms of gentle movement can support both physical and emotional well-being while fostering greater presence and awareness.
Perhaps most importantly, time in nature can help you reconnect with a sense of vitality, belonging, and appreciation for the beauty of the world around you.
Benefits of Ecotherapy
Is Ecotherapy right for me?
If these statements resonate with you, ecotherapy may be worth exploring.
You enjoy spending time outdoors and feel nourished by nature.
You struggle with anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck and are looking for a different therapeutic environment.
You are curious about how nature can support emotional well-being, reduce rumination, and offer fresh perspectives.
You would like to incorporate more movement and physical activity into your life.
You are open to exploring new approaches to personal growth and healing.
FAQs
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At the Arnold Arboretum, a 281-acre public garden in Boston managed by Harvard University and designed in part by Frederick Law Olmsted. It offers a quiet, natural setting for outdoor therapy sessions.
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Yes. Each season offers its own qualities and rhythms, which can be meaningful in the therapeutic process. With appropriate clothing, ecotherapy is possible year-round.
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Ecotherapy is billed like standard outpatient psychotherapy. If I am in-network with your insurance, it is typically covered. Please see the FAQ section on fees and insurance for more details.
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While absolute privacy is not possible outdoors, it is generally not a concern in practice.
We meet in quieter areas of the Arboretum, which is a large space where people are typically engaged in their own activities.
If needed, we can lower our voices, pause conversation, or adjust location to increase privacy. Virtual sessions are always available if preferred.
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Your safety is important. In the event of unsafe or inclement weather, we will meet virtually.
You are also welcome to choose virtual sessions at any time for any reason.
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Dress for comfort and the weather. Sturdy shoes such as sneakers or boots are recommended—avoid shoes you don’t want to get wet or dirty.
Boston weather can change quickly, so checking the forecast and dressing in layers is helpful. A hat, gloves, or light jacket may be useful depending on the season.
Bringing water can be helpful in warmer months.
While we may walk during sessions, ecotherapy is not exercise—we move at a comfortable pace to support conversation, reflection, and mindfulness.
Contact Me
If you have any other questions please get in touch.
