Nature-based Therapy

Nature-based therapy has been described as a modern practice with ancient roots. The notion of the natural environment as beneficial to humans has existed throughout history, sustained through changing social, cultural, political, and geographical landscapes. Today, our intuitive knowledge is validated through empirical research confirming profound correlations between nature and wellbeing.

The term “nature-based therapy” is a broad term encompassing a variety of therapeutic approaches; for example, terms such as wilderness therapy, ecotherapy, animal-assisted therapy, or green therapy all fall under the ‘nature based therapy’ umbrella. The binding feature is that this work primarily occurs in outdoor environments, or incorporates elements of the natural world in practice. The premise is ultimately that nature herself, or parts of the natural world, are capable of contributing to health and wellbeing.

Nature-based Therapy involves partnering with nature and animals to assist with human mental, emotional, and social health. Stable Roots offers various out-of-office session structures, including farm-based and equine-facilitated wellness, local outdoor therapy, and walk-and-talk sessions. Activities are tailored to the individual, depending on their needs and goals.

Our counselling approach is trauma-informed and utilizes a three phase support model to promote safety, connectedness, and empowerment. Counselling services are facilitated by a Registered Clinical Counsellor with specialized training in animal-assisted and/ or nature-based interventions.

Farm-Based Therapy

Farm-based therapy offers an alternative to office-based work by engaging clients in relational, movement-based, and sensory-rich experiences with animals and the natural world. Animals provide a nonverbal, nonjudgmental presence, which can feel less threatening than human interaction, especially for those with histories of relational trauma.

Guided by a neuro-relational lens, our farm-based program meets clients where they are. We scaffold experiences that support a felt sense of safety and regulation, while gradually building capacity for relational engagement, reflection and skill building—moving in alignment with how the brain is structured, while attuning to and following the client’s lead. Whether it’s the quiet rhythm of brushing a horse, the structure of daily farm chores, or the shared gaze of a curious goat, these moments become the groundwork for new relational templates and nervous system patterns. Clients are invited into co-regulating experiences that calm the nervous system and gently restore trust in connection – where the body begins to trust that it is safe.

All outdoor offerings are 50 or 80 minutes long.

In-town Outdoor Therapy

In-town Outdoor Therapy involves uprooting ourselves and transferring the work that occurs in a traditional office-based talk-therapy session into an outdoor setting within local city limits. Most often, sessions take place at a collaboratively selected green space, such as a park, garden, or beach. Opportunities for connecting with the natural environment and inviting nature into the therapeutic process are facilitated by therapists with specialized training in nature-based modalities.

All outdoor offerings are 50 or 80 minutes long.

Walk-and-Talk

Walk and Talk therapy is as it sounds -- a regulating, physiologically-nourishing and rhythmic way to move through the therapeutic process together. Sessions take place in local community settings, such as parks and trails, favourite neighbourhoods, and even right from the doors of the Stable Roots office. This is a popular offering for individuals seeking the benefit of movement alongside the value of talk therapy.

All outdoor offerings are 50 or 80 minutes long.