OUTDOOR THERAPY​

Eco-psychotherapy

Eco-psychotherapy simply means   incorporating the healing power of nature into psychotherapy. 

​

I am interested in the science of why we feel so much better in nature.

Being in nature can restore your mood, give you energy, be healing and grounding, reduce stress, improve sleep and lower blood pressure. We know from research that spending as little as 15 minutes with trees lowers cortisol levels, boosts the immune system and reduces anxiety. You may have heard of Forest Bathing.

​

You may chose to walk or sit connecting with nature through all your senses.

In nature, all the human conditions are there. The wind may blow, the rain may pour, the sun may shine. Walking can provide a symbolic and metaphoric representation of various issues, conflicts and resolutions you may face. Whatever comes up in different weathers, seasons and landscapes. Noticing what is around you and how you feel. 

​

We know exercise, nature and psychotherapy are all good for your mind, body and spirit– so why not combine them?

​​

Walking and talking may feel less intimidating for some people rather than sitting face-to-face. Looking forwards rather than directly at a therapist can help some people open up. Walk and Talk therapy can be deeply calming and grounding. I walk alongside you, a gentle walk, you do not need to be 'superfit'.

The physical act of walking and moving forward can be a powerful catalyst for personal change.  It can help you become 'unstuck'. 

Outdoor therapy is useful for people who may be in a time of life crisis or transition, going through some kind of loss or grief, feeling anxious or depressed and perhaps feeling stuck. Perhaps surprisingly, it is also beneficial for people who suffer from chronic pain or chronic illness.

​

I am located near to:​​

• Kirklees Valley Nature Reserve

• Old Kay's Park​

The initial session will be an assessment in my therapy room in the garden. This is to ensure that outdoor therapy is suitable for you, for us to agree on how we might handle any practicalities, emotions or issues such as the weather and to maintain boundaries and confidentiality whilst outdoors. We will also agree on suitable outdoor spaces.

​

I work in daylight hours, in all seasons and in all weathers (unless dangerous or hazardous!)

​

I offer a free 20 minute no obligation introductory session to discuss what
you would like to achieve through outdoor therapy and to make sure you feel I am the right therapist for you.

​

Fee £55 per one hour session

These are usually weekly, but this is negotiable to suit your needs.

Longer sessions by negotiation

​

I have completed training with psychotherapist Dr Ruth Allen.

Ruth explains in this podcast how outdoor counselling works:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000g3g5

​

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact me either by telephone or text on 07783 776639 or

by email Jillwilsoncounselling@gmail.com ​ If you leave a message, I will call back within 24 hours Monday to Friday.