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by Amy Wagenfeld (Author), Shannon Marder (Author)
The benefits of interacting with nature for our social, cognitive, and physical wellbeing are well documented. But how practical is it to take therapy into nature, or bring nature into therapy?
This evidence-based and accessible guide demonstrates easily workable, creative, tried-and-tested strategies for bringing nature into therapy. It includes simple and fun ready-to-go activity ideas. Using the life-course as a framework, the authors highlight the impact of nature at every stage of human development. From younger children to older adults, anyone can benefit from outdoor therapy, and different therapeutic offerings can be adapted to suit most individuals and groups. Resources are included to help assess a program's readiness to incorporate nature, create plans to take therapy outdoors (or bring the outside in), and evaluate the impact it could have for patients or clients. With testimonials from service users who have felt the benefits of nature-based practices, and case studies highlighting excellence in practice from health and social care professionals across various fields, this book will inspire and empower allied health and mental health practitioners to take their therapy practice outdoors.Author Biography
Amy Wagenfeld is an Occupational Therapist, an educator, researcher and author, and principal of Amy Wagenfeld Design, a therapeutic design consultancy. Amy is a fellow of the AOTA, and has accreditations for evidence-based design, environmental modifications and healthcare garden design. She was recently awarded the AOTA Recognition of Achievement for her unique blending of occupational therapy and therapeutic design and the ASLA Outstanding Service Award. Amy is passionate about providing all people equitable, inclusive, and safe access to health promoting environments.
Shannon Marder is an Occupational Therapist. She develops programs and curriculums for various age groups and education levels. She is eager to educate horticulture enthusiasts about public health and chronic conditions. She speaks at conferences and is a member of AOTA.
