Gary Snyder
Nature-based therapy, or Ecotherapy, involves connecting with the natural world in a way that benefits our own well-being, as well as the well-being of the earth. Human beings need a deeper connection with the earth now more than ever. Simultaneously, the Earth needs human beings to meaningfully connect with it now more than ever.
Wellness groups will involve 3 principles of Mindful Appreciation, Meaningful Connection, and Mutual Relationships. Groups may involve activities such as:
Each group will be facilitated by Katie Reed, LPC. Katie is being trained to receive an ecotherapy certification. Katie also has ample experience and training in utilizing mindfulness practices, meditation, therapeutic yoga, and more in both individual and group contexts.
Please note, these wellness groups are not therapy groups. They are intended to act as more of a support group for helping professionals to connect with the earth and one another in a mutually beneficial way.
Each Wellness Group will begin at the pavilion adjacent to the nature trail, from which we will walk to our group area. There we will introduce ourselves, participate in a mental wellbeing checkin as a group, and then move into the nature-based activities described above. We will conclude the group with a time of group reflection and processing the activities.
Groups will be held rain or shine, so make sure to come dressed for the weather, and wear shoes conducive to walking on uneven terrain. In the case of inclement weather, group will either be relocated or rescheduled.
Three Fridays a Month at 12pm Beginning on October 14th
October 14th, 21st, 28th
November 4th, 18th, 25th
December 2nd, 9th, 16th
Location
Blue Ridge Nature Trail in Bluff Park
1121 Blue Ridge Blvd.
Hoover, AL 35226
Payment & Participation
Cost of Groups is $40 per session, or $120 when paying for 4 weeks. Inquire about discounts for students and nonprofit employees. Cash, check, or card payments are accepted.
Groups are open and may be joined at any time. There is no obligation to continue in groups and participants may discontinue attendance at any time. Participants are asked to communicate their plans to attend or discontinue with Katie Reed. The number of participants may be limited as the groups progress, and a waiting list may be created as necessary.
Accessibility Needs
The location of this group will not be conducive to participants who need accessible terrain or who are unable to walk longer distances. However, if you are interested in participating in a nature-based group and you do require special accommodations for the space, please contact me about future options and locations. I want to ensure that all individuals who want to access ecotherapy are able to do so.
Goals for the Wellness Groups for Therapists, Healers, and Helpers group include:
Contact Katie Reed via email or phone to schedule a brief virtual intake session to complete paperwork, receive more information, and to ensure goodness of fit for the group.