Your questions answered: Why do you offer outdoor and farm based sessions?

I began offering outdoor sessions and groups on the farm not too long ago and several people have asked why.  What can this setting do for my child who has a deep fear?  How can this be helpful to my child if they have experienced trauma?  Can this be helpful for kids who have challenging behavior?  Let’s talk about it!

Outdoor and farm sessions for Preventing and Responding to Trauma

I have a number of clients I see on the farm who are working through the effects of trauma.  The outdoor setting offers unique opportunities for experiencing strength and resilience.  It is a perfect place to develop grit (which I talked about in this blog about preventing trauma).  For those who thrive in the outdoors and love animals, the farm can be a beautiful and disarming place to work through difficult things.

Outdoor and farm sessions for Irrational Fears and Phobias

The first thing that you encounter on the farm is a large flock of very friendly ducks and large, honking geese.  These birds are kind but intimidating for most people.  Usually, we spend our first session learning to gently and calmly set boundaries with the birds.  We can then build on this success knowing we can feel fear and confront it confidently.

Outdoor and farm sessions for Challenging Behavior

Nothing goes perfectly on a farm: the chickens run off when you yell or stomp, the barn cat jumps onto a high windowsill out of reach, the geese are too loud, the horses are too big…everything is a little less than perfect on the farm.  This makes it a prime neutral location to experience difficult situations and practice working through them.  As well, all of the animals react to the energy you put forward which means that our hyperactive friends are given immediate feedback on what their energy is doing to those around them and have the opportunity to practice regulating themselves.

Outdoor and farm sessions: Conclusion

I am elated to have this setting available for the families and kids that need it.  If you think that might be you, set up a Free Discovery Call with me!

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