212: Exploring the Healing Power of the Outdoors in Mental Health Treatment with Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan
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In this insightful episode of Stories from the Field, we welcome Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan, a pioneering figure in nature-informed therapy and the founder of the Center for Nature Informed Therapy). Dr. Heidi is not just an advocate for integrating the outdoors into mental health treatment; she is also a dedicated provider of training in this innovative field, offering valuable insights and guidance to both mental health professionals and outdoor educators. Her unique approach to treating individuals with anxiety, utilizing the healing power of nature, has proven to be an effective and transformative method of facilitating recovery and self-discovery. Dr. Heidi's connection to nature and its therapeutic benefits is deeply rooted in her experiences, one of which she generously shares with us. Following a spiritual revelation she had after summiting a mountain in Austria, Dr. Heidi decided to dedicate her life to helping others unlock the benefits of nature in the counseling room. This profound moment led to the establishment of the Center for Nature Informed Therapy), which emphasizes the importance of nature as a crucial component of self-care and mental wellness. The center aims to equip mental health professionals with the necessary tools to incorporate nature into their practices, thereby broadening the scope of mental health treatment options available to those in need. Further solidifying her commitment to enhancing mental wellness through nature, Dr. Heidi authored "Taming the Anxious Mind: A Guidebook to Relieve Stress and Anxiety," providing readers with practical strategies to manage anxiety by tapping into the calming effects of the natural world. This episode not only sheds light on the growing trend among mental health professionals to utilize the outdoors as a valuable ally in the journey toward mental wellness, but it also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone seeking to harness the benefits of nature in their healing journey. Season 17 of Stories from the Field is focused on Anxiety and is underwritten by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.)