A robust and growing body of research links spending time in nature—even in small amounts—to improved health and happiness. Yet, due to the demands and realities of modern life, many families lack the time, money, or fitness needed for traditional nature-bonding activities, such as lengthy multi-day camping or hiking trips. Fortunately, nature therapy sessions can provide an intensive and uplifting
experiential and spiritual interaction with nature in as little as half an hour at minimal cost and exertion. As a bonus, studies find that when people connect with nature, they’re more likely to protect it.
Nature Therapy Guides facilitate connection to nature by aiding access to local nature, interpreting and
providing contextual information about nature, leading nature-based mindfulness activities, and supporting participants in contextualising relationships to nature through the lenses of participants’ own spiritual
beliefs. Guides specialize in designing and leading nature-focused walks, meditations, or activities, although nature-based approaches can be integrated into many wellness-related professions.
The Guide’s central role is to cultivate safe, enjoyable, and mutually respectful nature experiences for participants.
INTRODUCTION
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Nature therapy is becoming an increasingly popular (and scientifically-backed) modality for people seeking to improve overall well-being. Our program develops Guides who can craft and lead nature experiences that facilitate positive connections between nature and people. We equip Guides with tools to build their own customised nature therapy programs, on a foundation of key theoretical and practical knowledge, through the lenses of their own expertise and backgrounds.
Guides gain competencies in the types and science of nature therapy, the nature and natural history of their local environment, spirituality in nature, mindfulness in nature, outreach and communication skills, and trail safety and leadership. They learn to implement a structured-yet-flexible template for leading successful nature walks, meditations, and activities for diverse participants.
This all-inclusive certification program can be completed fully, typically within 1 to 2 weeks, (with up to 2 months allowed), with feedback and mentoring from a qualified instructor. Learning hours include: videos and recordings (in addition to required readings and written assignments), attendance of the 5-day residential and participation in live webinars and scheduled one-on-one meetings with your mentor.
Successful graduation will result in certification as a Certified Nature Therapy Guide through the Natural Wellness Academy, including a printed certificate.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
The overall learning outcomes for the course are listed here. For more detailed, module-specific learning
objectives, see the “Curriculum” section of this syllabus. By the end of this course, you will be able to:
1. Design and lead safe, uplifting nature experiences for diverse participants in various settings.
2. Describe empirical and theoretical research linking nature with improved wellbeing.
3. List methods to improve nature access and reduce common barriers.
4. Identify your ecoregion and summarize its natural history.
5. Apply concepts of spirituality and mindfulness in the context of nature.
6. Implement trail leadership skills including interpretation, etiquette, and safety.
7. Develop indoor and outdoor nature therapy activities using key pathways to nature connectedness.
THE LOW-DOWN
Upcoming Residential Dates for 2024
6th - 10th June
24th - 28th October
PROGRAM AIM:
Fast-Track students through to a one month certification (possible to defer the final Practicum submission for up to one month). All assignment finals AND the Advanced Track need also be submitted within one month following closure of the 5-day residential.
PROCESS & PROCEDURES:
Hybrid learning environment incorporating: one 5-day in-person full immersion retreat, online email support/moderation, two 1-on-1 zoom meetings.
Completion of all learning requirements for Modules 1 – 5 through a variety of: group and 1-on-1 discussions, practical activities indoor and outdoor, group and solo study, reflection.
Option to stay an extra day to also complete Module 6 – the final Practicum.
USPs:
Provide a 5-day residential where students can come together and benefit from:
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The opportunity to complete 5 (or 6) of the 6 program requirements in one week
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The opportunity to complete the entire certification program within 1 month (if not at the residential)
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1-on-1 tuition/mentoring/feedback
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In-person tuition/mentoring/feedback
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Working solo and within a group in a series of practical activities, discussions, study, and reflection periods
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Networking opportunities with fellow students
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Work in small groups
PAYMENT, TERMS & INCLUSIONS:
€2,250 is the cost of full tuition, mentoring and certification and includes:
• A 5-day full board, residential with:
Tuition, mentoring and outdoor activities
Breakfast, lunch, 3-course dinner, morning, and afternoon refreshment
Day trip to Lastours or Montségur castle
Transportation to and from outdoor activities
Transportation to and from Carcassonne airport/train station (€100 surcharge for Toulouse which can be shared with other students)
• Two one-on-one zoom meetings pre/post residential.
• Online mentoring and moderation for 2 months (max)
• Full access to the online library & resources
• A hard copy of the course's Nature Therapy Walks book by course founder, Cortney Cameron
The 5-day residential will NOT include tuition for the Advanced Track but ALL students will be eligible for free online tuition for these elements before, during (where time permits) and after the residential should they wish to pursue the Advanced Track option.
A deposit of 33% (€750) must be paid at the time of inscription.
A further instalment payment of 33% (€750) must be made prior to arrival.
The final 33% (€750) must be made before Certification is awarded.
For students wishing to stay an extra day to complete the final Practicum assignment in France, an additional charge of €150 will be payable to cover all meals, accommodation, and moderation of the extra day.
Students wishing to stay longer for sight-seeing and to explore the area can extend their stay and choose whether they wish to pay for B&B, Half- or Full-Board per day.