Meet our team of psychotherapists based on the Central Coast of California. Using a nature based theoretical orientation to therapy, we have developed an eight session immersive and integrative program.
Melinda
MA, LMFT; Licensed Psychotherapist
I have visceral memories from my early years that shaped my relationship with the natural world; crushing fragrant mint underfoot, playing hide & seek, covering myself in dirt under a redwood tree, spying busy beetle beneath; & swimming with vigor upstream or lazily floating in the ice cold river water, staring at the vast expanse of blue sky and tip tops of pine trees.
These memories, and many more, inform my draw, reverence, positive regard for natural outside, wild environments.
I am in love, awe and wonder of the natural world. I am also in awareness that not everyone from an early age, was exposed to, or had the privilege of developing such a relationship with the natural world. I have known and felt the healing properties of a relationship with Nature; to calm, center, push the limits of comfort and find solace with & within it. I wish to guide others in a reciprocal relationship with Nature.
Since becoming a licensed Psychotherapist in 2010, I've incorporated the healing elements of the natural world into my work with my clients. I'm incredibly excited to bring forth this nature therapy program; weaving together my love of, experience in and belief in the importance of healing with and through a reciprocal relationship with Nature.
This eight week program itinerary will offer each client a unique structured and customized experience using a plethora of psychotherapy modalities to familiarize, develop and integrate a healthy relationship with self and the natural world; thus healing ourselves, one another, and our environment.
Kristen
MA, AMFT; Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
I believe all pain stems from disconnection. Disconnection from self, others, and a greater belonging to the natural world. As a social species, we need to feel loved, safe, and connected to thrive. I believe each individual has everything they need within themselves to heal. Through being held in non-judgement by nature, we may profoundly reconnect with our internal landscape and remember who we are at our core. Just as we do not criticize one tree for looking different from another, we may learn to accept the uniqueness of our being. Knowing, each organism makes up the whole.
I view trauma as the fragmentation of painful experiences that get stuck within the body. In the nature based therapy program, we will gently untangle what is keeping you stuck to grant choice to live authentically. My approach is in partnership with nature to support you in self discovery, healing, growth, and change. I am honored to be a part of your process of deepening your connection to yourself, others, and the greater living world to engender a more integrated sense of wholeness. I value collaboration and am receptive to how I can support you to live a life of fulfillment, connection, ease, and purpose. Together, we will move through and learn from life’s difficulties to create more harmony within yourself, your relationships, and your environment.
Scott
PCC Intern
From a young age I’ve been lucky enough to explore the finest trails, mountains, and beaches of the Central Coast. As I got older, I was introduced to surfing, backpacking, diving, ancestral skills, and other activities that have allowed me truly to feel a kinship with the landscape. For me, the best way to show gratitude towards such a special ecosystem is to pass on my passion and share the healing power that I’ve found in the natural world. Through the voice of the birds and the blooming of the flowers, the environment is crafting a perpetually unfolding story. Nature based counseling gives me the opportunity to use this story to create a space for growth, change, and life development.
