Nature-Based Art Therapy for Kids: A Guest Post from our therapist, Liz Ash LPC-A

Hey there! I'm Liz Ash, and I'm thrilled to join the Thrive Outside Practice. Today, I want to dive into the world of Nature-Based Art Therapy (NBAT) and shed some light on what it's all about.

So, what exactly is NBAT? Well, it's not as new as you might think. In fact, it's rooted in a deeply ancient practice. Art therapy, in general, is a form of traditional therapy where both the practitioner and the client collaborate through creative expression to tackle issues that brought them to therapy in the first place. Now, here's where the nature-based twist comes in. NBAT draws on the idea that humans aren't just connected to other humans but also to nature itself, echoing beliefs held dear by indigenous cultures throughout history.

Think of it as a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern science. We're talking about holistic healing theories that view humans as inherently intertwined with nature. Picture this: you're out in the wilderness, observing a rabbit frolicking in a meadow. Suddenly, a loud noise startles the rabbit, and it freezes or dashes away. From a nature-based perspective, this reaction ties into the polyvagal theory, where our nervous system picks up on potential threats and triggers a response.

So, how does therapy fit into all of this? Well, it's about recognizing our responses to perceived threats and learning to tap into our personal resources to adapt. And that's where art therapy comes into play. By creating a safe and creative space, we can explore these situations and develop adaptable responses while finding deeper meaning in our experiences.

Now, who can benefit from NBAT? The short answer: everyone! From kids to teens to adults, as long as you can appreciate your surroundings, you're in the game. And when it comes to where and when these sessions happen, it's all about flexibility. Your therapist will choose environments conducive to your growth, and sessions can take place rain or shine, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

So, whether you're a nature enthusiast or someone curious about exploring the connection between art and the great outdoors, NBAT might just be the therapeutic journey you've been searching for.

Looking forward to working with you!

—Liz