"Going into the woods is going home" John Muir
Nature offers us a unique insight into our internal world as well as how we fit into the world around us. For millienna humans evolved in tandem with the natural world. In terms of our evolutionary journey it is only recently we came to live in city's and towns disconnected from the natural land. The evidence for the positive impact of spending time in nature is now overwhelming and for some people experiencing mental health issues, spending time in nature can be a effective and welcome alternative to medical interventions.

Evidence tells us that simply breathing in the air in a forest can improve physical health and that time spent in nature reduces the chemicals in our body connected to stress and can calm the nervous system. For some people walking in a natural green space can feel like a safer alternative to a counselling room.
The sessions I facilitate with nature are based upon the japanese principle of Shinrin Yoku or forest bathing. Nature sessions are in different locations both in and out of London and are a joint venture which we will plan together. These sessions can be for individuals and groups and the amount of time and frequency is tailored around what would be most helpful for you. Sessions typically combine mindfulness exercises and reflection with the forest to create a calm soothing openness that acts as a antidote to the busy hustle bustle and demands of life separated from nature. This allows a more open way of experiencing the world which fosters existential inquiry and wisdom that is often drowned out by the noise of modern life. I also offer walk and talk sessions in Tooting, Wandsworth or Streatham common. These sessions are more then a standard talking therapy session moved outside. The combination of movement, nature and being side by side can offer a unique therapeutic experience, that for some can be life changing.
From the spring of 2026 I will be facilitating a creative nature connection group. The group will combine therapeutic writing and Ecotherapy to offer a safe healing space. We will meet monthly in a green space in London as well as have regular online check ins to keep the momentum and connection. This group was born out of my own experience of facilitating writing therapy trauma groups and Ecotherapy. The combination offers a safe healing space of connection and growth. This is not a creative writing group. No writing experience is needed and you will not be made to share work if you don't wish to. Writing allows us to connect to pain and hurt with creativity and compassion. Often this helps us process difficult traumatic experiences and find parts of ourselves we never knew existed. When combined with scientifically proven nature connection we create a healing compassionate space where you can become the person you want to be. To find out more please get in touch through the messaging tool below.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help. You can also call me on 07944480046 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first.
© Lee Robert White Counselling
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