Ecotherapy
Nature-Based Regulation & Psychological Balance
Ecotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the natural environment to support emotional regulation, reduce stress, and improve psychological balance. It works by engaging the body, senses, and nervous system to strengthen stability, clarity, and resilience.
Nervous System Regulation
Supports a calmer, more balanced stress response.
Grounding
Brings attention into the present through sensory connection.
Being Presence
Reduces mental overload and improves moment-to-moment awareness.
Connection
Strengthens connection to body, environment, and experience.
Perspective
Creates mental space and flexibility in how situations are viewed.
Restoration
Rebuilds mental and emotional resources over time.
What Is Ecotherapy?
Ecotherapy, also known as nature-based therapy, is based on the understanding that humans are deeply influenced by their environment — and that natural settings can support regulation, clarity, and psychological stability.
When stress levels remain high for long periods of time, the nervous system can become stuck in a state of overactivation or shutdown. Ecotherapy uses intentional, guided interaction with natural environments to support a more balanced physiological and psychological state. This approach can take place outdoors or be integrated into indoor sessions using nature-based methods.
+1 (437) 830‑2088
Working With the Nervous System, Not Just Thoughts
Ecotherapy works by engaging more than just thinking and talking. It involves the body, attention, and sensory experience. Natural environments support the nervous system in shifting out of high-stress states and into more regulated, stable modes of functioning. This makes emotional processing, reflection, and skill-building more accessible and effective.
Depending on your needs, Ecotherapy may include:
+1 (437) 830‑2088
Mindful walking or sitting in natural environments
Sensory awareness and grounding exercises
Breath and body-based regulation practices
Reflective and symbolic work using natural elements
Integration with CBT, ACT, DBT, and trauma-informed approaches
Is Ecotherapy Right for You?
AREF Echotherapy is often helpful if:
You feel mentally overloaded, stressed, or constantly “on”
You feel disconnected from your body, your surroundings, or your sense of balance
You spend most of your time in your head and want a more grounded, embodied approach
You feel burned out, mentally fatigued, or emotionally drained
You want practical, experience-based methods — not just conversation
How Ecotherapy Works
At Aref Psychotherapy, Ecotherapy is adapted for both individual sessions and group skills training (when available).
It’s structured, supportive, and broken into 4 key skill areas:
Nervous System Regulation
Supports a calmer, more balanced stress response.
Being Present
Strengthens attention in the here and now and reduces mental overload and rumination.
Connection
Rebuilds connection to body, environment, and lived experience.
Perspective
Creates mental space and flexibility in how situations, stress, and challenges are viewed.
Multilingual Services
DBT at Aref Psychotherapy
Our therapists use Ecotherapy as a flexible, structured approach that integrates nature into the therapeutic process. Sessions are adapted to your pace and preferences and can be offered in outdoor, hybrid, or indoor formats. We consider cultural, religious, and family backgrounds and provide services in multiple languages to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience.
You Don’t Need to Change Who You Are — You Just Need the Right Conditions
You don’t need to push yourself harder or ignore stress. With the right support and environment, it’s possible to feel more balanced, grounded, and in control of your life.