Nature Assisted Therapy
Many psychologists have found that exposure to nature has wonderful results on stress reduction and supports our overall wellbeing. Combine these benefits with the supportive, professional relationship in counselling and many people experience profound changes.
We are able to work flexibly with nature and at the pace of the client to ensure the counselling is effective. We can look at small steps to introduce nature into the counselling room using creative methods such as rocks, pebbles and metaphor work or for those who would like to experience a more immersive form of nature therapy Coastal Counselling are able to facilitate sessions outdoors.
For some the confining space of the therapy room that others feel safe in can feel overwhelming and claustrophobic. By taking the counselling session outdoors we are able to experience a different way of working, incorporating nature as an active participant can be truly transformational for some people. Connecting to natures constant process of flux and change; the tides, the seasons, the moon cycles can support us to work through our own changes.
Walking outdoors provides an additional layer to the therapeutic process. For some clients who may be feeling a sense of "stuckness" experiencing physical movement whilst talking with a qualified professional can help to gain clarity in how to move forward with their situation.
If you are interested in this way of working please do get in touch and we can discuss your requirements.
Animal Assisted Therapy in
Counselling
Coastal Counselling are also pleased to be able to offer Animal Assisted Therapy in Counselling for those with whom it would be appropriate. Our counsellor Melissa, has worked in this way for a number of years with her Cocker Spaniel Tilly and has seen the endless therapeutic benefits working alongside a dog can bring to clients. Melissa attended a three day training course in Animal Assisted Therapy in Counselling and also conducted her Masters Degree research dissertation into how animals provide therapeutic conditions to clients in a counselling setting. Her research found there are endless ways in which animals are able to offer unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence.
There has been a wealth of research conducted into this area and it is evident the benefits of this way of working are becoming more widely recognised. Working with a professionally qualified counsellor and incorporating the many benefits an animal can bring can truly support individuals in their therapeutic journey. For some clients, having an animal present during sessions can enhance the feelings of comfort and safety provided by the counsellor. The non-judgemental presence of an animal can put clients at ease and help deepen the therapeutic process.
We are able to offer a limited number of Animal Assisted Therapy in Counselling sessions to ensure the welfare needs of Tilly are maintained and due to space and location. Please be aware that sessions are not guaranteed and may not always be available.
If this is something you would like to incorporate into your counselling please do not hesitate to get in touch and we can discuss your needs.
