If you are someone whose nervous system feels calmer and more regulated when you spend time outdoors, or if you need some extra assistance to bring more movement or nature into your life, then this approach is for you.

I often work with people who:

• Don’t connect with clinical settings

• Have goals around being more active

• Are happiest in nature

By engaging in Occupational Therapy outdoors, we combine the support of the therapeutic relationship, with the support we receive from nature. When we work in harmony with our biology and natural environment, we are able to tap into our bodies’ natural healing capacity. We are stronger together, quite literally!

Yes absolutely. Emotional safety is key, so whether it’s individual sessions, or family inclusive sessions, we will work in a way that feels right for you.

Most of my groups are formed organically over time. For those interested, I aim to connect 2-3 clients of similar ages and interests, for the purposes of building a community support network. Being around other people who share lived experiences and genuinely understand, can be very therapeutic in itself.

Nature Therapy Central Coast is for anyone who doesn’t connect with mental health supports offered in clinical settings. This is often young people, however yes, I do work with people of all ages.

Generally I work with the ages of 12+, however if your child is slightly younger, please do get in touch and we can chat to see if my approach is a good fit.

For existing and ongoing clients, I also offer ‘regular’ Occupational Therapy services such as Functional Capacity Assessments and letters of support for assistive technology.

Sorry, I don’t offer stand-alone Functional Capacity Assessments for NDIS reporting purposes.

When walking on Country, we stay on designated public paths, being mindful of leaving no trace. We believe in living with reciprocity with Country, and therefore remove rubbish that is found, and visit only publicly known and/or signposted Cultural living sites. We interact with care, meaning we don’t touch carvings or remove any natural items, including flora.

During each walk, we honour the living Cultural connection that First Nations people have with land, sea, sky and animal kin. We talk about how modern research affirms First Nations science. We recommend connecting with local Aboriginal guides to learn about cultural significance, history and story, and refer participants to books by First Nations authors. Please note, whilst nature therapy sessions are held outdoors, they are not cultural tours. Rather, we connect with nature for the known mental health benefits.

As a non-Aboriginal business, I understand that we hold privilege when it comes to land and resources, and therefore encourage participants and colleagues to connect with Indigenous social justice educators and organisations.

We are committed to practicing in a culturally safe way, and this includes being open to feedback and ongoing learning. I understand that learning is a lifelong process, and am grateful for the generous sharing by First Nations elders and community, and for the rich impact this learning has had on my life.

I see allyship as being demonstrated through action, and I firmly believe that we all benefit from First Nations leadership, stewardship and governance. I share my appreciation of Culture with participants as a way of amplifying respect and honouring living culture and knowledge.