Nature-based therapy

In which contexts is nature-based therapy most effective? What does it have to do with attachment theory, stress reduction theory, and attention restoration theory? How can nature help both children and adults (therapists included) stay regulated? Nevin also discusses outdoor risky play, when social-emotional learning is developmentally appropriate, and the limits of some contemporary approaches to assessing and treating mental health challenges. Also, what’s the deal with negative ionization and waterfalls?

Guest: Nevin Harper

Adapted from the Kids These Days website:

Nevin Harper identifies first and foremost as a practitioner of nature-based therapy, wherein he conducts outdoor counselling sessions around his home of Vancouver Island, Canada. As a research professor at the University of Victoria’s School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, Nevin focuses on active engagement of people-in-environments, specifically outdoor, experiential, and nature-based activities. Nevin is also a sought-after speaker, trainer, and consultant around the world.

References:

• Nature-based Therapy
• Embracing Risky Play at School
• Kids These Days
• MINT Lab at UBC
• Bowlby and Ainsworth’s attachment theory
• Universal interventions on mental health: https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/camh.12572
• Imaginative Ecological Education
• CASEL framework
• Psychiatry for Kids (children’s book)
• Plastic Surgery for Kids (children’s book)
• Data on GAD & PHQ9 surveys and medication use are detailed in James Davies’ book Sedated.
• Insights about kids and rough-and-tumble play: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2003-04408-022
• Ellen Beate Hansen Sandseter: https://ellenbeatehansensandseter.com/
• Therapeutic outcomes over the past 50 years: https://www.madinamerica.com/2018/06/psychotherapists-reflect-lack-improvement-psychotherapy/