Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:
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1) Why in nature?
There are powerful experiences that happen when we are in green spaces. Our blood pressure and stress hormones naturally decrease, the ambient air and sound and sights activate parts of our brain the indoors cannot. Nature heals and teaches.
Goto The Experience! tab and click on resources and video clips to learn more.
Lastly and one of the most important reasons for doing this work in nature is that when we have a deeper relationship with nature,
we want to take better care of ourselves, others, and nature. The interdependence is felt.
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2) What if the weather is "bad"?
If there is a serious weather advisory (high winds, lightning) we will either reschedule or complete a virtual session with extra in between sessions support since we did not need to travel to one another.
I will text you to confirm the location. If more clients are nearest one location, that will be the location chosen.
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"There is never bad weather, just bad gear!"
If heavy rains, we would meet at one of the locations with a shelter! (Maymont Nature Center or Byrd Park Shelter)
Some of the best sessions are when the weather is intense. This weather often opens up a place in us.
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3) When and how do I pay for my session?
When you book the session, I will send a secure PayPal link at time of booking or the day of your session.
You can also pay with cash at time of session. Let me know so I can print a paper receipt for you.
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4) Cancellation Policy
If there is a serious illness, accident, death or emergency room situation, then a 100% refund is given even for last-minute cancellations. The honor system applies. If you or your child is home sick, we can have a virtual session.
If there is severe inclement weather, see above "What if weather is bad."
100% refund for cancellations done within 2 business days before the appointment, during business hours 9-5 PM.
For day-before or last-minute cancellations, there is no refund. This helps with commitment and follow-through.
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5) What about confidentiality?
What if I see someone I know while we are out or someone hears us?
It is up to you if you want to introduce me as your coworker since we are both technically working together.
Whatever you feel comfortable with. We find a less busy area in nature to talk and if we walk by someone,
we can have a plan to lower our voices if speaking about something sensitive and personal. I take your lead.
If you are working on the de-stigmatization of seeking wellness services, you're welcome to introduce me as your counselor.
You may inspire someone!
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6) What about physical and psychological safety and liability?
There are some risks of physical or psychological discomfort or possible injury, especially when exploring more uneven and intense "terrain." I have basic first aid, CPR, and crisis management training. We move smart and are encouraged to listen to our own bodies, minds, and hearts to set the pace. I will check in periodically throughout the session to see how you are doing and it is up to you to share any needs. Those who have any serious occurrences or allergies will need to give me a safety plan in case of occurrence i.e. bee allergy. If signs of a psychotic episode - de-escalation interventions and crisis counseling referrals are given.
We will never be farther than a 20-minute walk or 6-minute run back to the car.
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Being a woman, I also have to take precautions and not go to any secluded areas or certain locations, especially with male gender clients. One reason I began nature-based counseling is for women or LGBTQ+ people to feel safe and comfortable to
be out in nature. Many of us want to explore nature but find it unsafe to be out alone.
Between sessions, I encourage meeting friends and family out in nature and exploring together and
developing a safety plan to feel more confident if you venture out alone.
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7) I accept only Medicaid Optima Insurance - otherwise, it is self-pay. This is not traditional psychotherapy. I do not give you a diagnosis unless we find this helpful. We enter from a place of health and strength instead of working within the framework of the medical model of health - illness, and categorization. While we do identify the negative habit patterns of our mind and actions we focus much of our attention on our strengths and building new ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
We grow those areas that take us closer to
our ideal selves, minds, relationships, and overall wellness.
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8) Sliding scale available for those near the poverty line with no access to family help.
Please go to the link to see if you qualify.
https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/federal-poverty-level-FPL/ ​
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