About

What is Nature Therapy?

At the heart of my approach is a belief in the power of nature as a co-creator in the healing process. Nature offers a calming, grounding space where our bodies and minds can begin to self-regulate and recover, especially when paired with thoughtful, informed therapeutic care. Something as simple as walking barefoot in the grass can support health and well-being, and science is continuing to affirm what many of us intuitively know: we are deeply connected to the natural world.

Nature-based therapy is more than just being outdoors, it’s a holistic approach that considers the whole person: mind, body, spirit, relationships, and community. For individuals navigating anxiety, ADHD, or simply the stress of everyday life, nature provides a space to slow down, reconnect with the senses, and build resilience. In group settings or one-on-one sessions, nature gently invites belonging, exploration, and connection. The sights, sounds, and sensations of the environment, like sunlight, birdsong, and fresh air, naturally support the nervous system and help reduce worry and overwhelm.

Therapeutic work in nature can also help improve focus and emotional regulation by offering real-time feedback from the environment. This can make learning new coping tools and absorbing psychoeducation feel more accessible and embodied. Research even shows that time spent in green spaces helps ease symptoms of impulsivity and attention fatigue in adults with ADHD.

Alongside nature, I also incorporate mindfulness-based practices to support healing and growth. Mindfulness isn’t about fixing or changing who we are—it’s about noticing, being present, and creating space for compassion and calm. These practices help us tune in to our breath, our thoughts, and our emotions with curiosity instead of judgment. Mindfulness can be especially helpful for those dealing with anxiety, trauma, or high stress, offering tools to gently bring ourselves back to the present when our minds are spinning in worry or rumination.

Whether it’s through time spent among the trees, group reflection next to the river, or learning to befriend your thoughts, these practices are adaptable, inclusive, and rooted in the belief that healing is possible—and that you don’t have to do it alone.

I specialize in nature-based and somatic therapies, guiding individuals back to their inner wisdom through experiential practices. With years of experience in wilderness therapy and experiential modalities, I’ve seen firsthand how nature, mindfulness, and movement can support deep healing and meaningful growth.

I’m a certified mindfulness facilitator and integrate evidence-based tools to help clients build presence, resilience, and self-trust. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that each person has the capacity to heal, thrive, and reconnect with themselves.

When I’m not working with clients, you can usually find me painting or exploring the outdoors with my two dogs.

Hi! I’m Shay Wilson, and I can’t wait to meet you.

Experience & Specialties

Experience:

  • Graduate of the Experiential Learning Circle- Somatic Training from HeartMind Resiliency

  • Advanced Training in Trauma-Informed Care Certificate, The Center for Mind-Body Medicine

  • Koru Mindfulness Certified Level 1, Koru Mindfulness

  • Mindfulness Outdoor Guide Certified, Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Modalities:

  • DBT

  • Somatic Resiliency Mode

  • Nature Therapy

Education:

Soon to be Licensed Professional Counselor after completion of a Counseling Master’s program Dec. ‘26