Hello, friends! Welcome to the final episode of our series on money and pricing. Today, I’m sharing three easy strategies to help you raise your prices so you can make more with the same amount of effort and work!

          Offer installment payments. If your service costs $1,000, break it into smaller payments to make it more manageable for clients.

          Add upsells. Offer additional services that enhance your primary offering. For instance, if you offer therapy visits, an optional monthly parent consultation call could be a valuable upsell that increases your revenue per client.

          Use package pricing. This involves bundling services into a flat monthly rate, which helps clients understand the value they’re receiving and gives you more control over your time. Many of my coaching clients have successfully transitioned to this model, allowing them to work smarter, not harder.

Connect with me on Instagram @lauraparkfig or visit therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com for more updates!

00:00 Introduction to Therapy in the Great Outdoors  

01:00 Series Finale: Money and Pricing  

01:09 Three Easy Ways to Raise Your Prices  

01:51 First Strategy: Offer Installment Payments  

03:22 Second Strategy: Add Upsells  

04:05 Third Strategy: Package Pricing  

07:39 Recap and Final Thoughts  

08:44 Upcoming Episode Preview  

09:00 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

As you grow your nature-based practice, you’ll find that there are 4 main stages of business that you encounter. There is no endpoint and your journey will take you from stage to stage, and as you evolve you will face new challenges and opportunities.

In this episode, I’m sharing what you should focus on and the mistakes to avoid as you go through each stage of your business, You’ll hear insight from my own business as a nature-based pediatric therapist as well as the knowledge that I’ve accumulated over my years of group coaching and observing other practices and how they manage their companies. 

We’ll discuss:

• My takeaways from the Umbrella Review from Harper, Fernee and Gabrielsen
• The 4 stages of nature-based practice
• My tips for what to focus on in each stage of your practice
• Mistakes to avoid during each business phase
• Why I recommend investing in mentoring or coaching

Resources from this episode:

Nature's Role in Outdoor Therapies: An Umbrella Review (Harper, Fernee, & Gabrielsen, 2021)

The ConTiGO Approach Online Course

Nature-Based Practice Roadmap

Small Business Administration

Nolo

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

Trello

Therapy in the Great Outdoors Community

Are you a pediatric therapist interested in taking your work with children out into nature? The ConTiGO Approach Online Course will open for registration soon: visit www.ConTiGOapproach.com to join the waitlist.

Are you a pediatric therapist who wants to take your work with children outdoors into nature? As a nature-based pediatric therapist & entrepreneur, I’ve spent years finding the balance between the practice of nature-based therapy and improving my business.

There’s so much to learn–from groundbreaking research on the therapy side to new marketing strategies on the business side–and I’m here to help you make sense of all of it, all while staying true to the core of your work.

In this first episode, I’m sharing my journey to becoming a nature-based pediatric therapist and what led me to help other professionals expand and improve their own businesses. I’m explaining why I pivoted from my old show to this one and what you can expect from upcoming episodes.

We’ll discuss:

• How nature-based practice might help you reignite your love of your work as a pediatric therapist
• How the ConTiGO (Connection & Transformation in the Great Outdoors) Approach was created 
• A story about fear when starting something new & "putting yourself out there"
• Why I started this podcast and ended my old one (which had 100k+ downloads and 75 episodes!)
• What you can expect from upcoming episodes...how THIS podcast will be similar to my old one AND different.

There IS an irony to this episode! Did you notice it?

Since it is episode #1, I felt I needed to give a little intro and my history for new listeners. Then right after that, I'm telling you to STOP talking about yourself in your marketing and talk about what's in it for your customers! 😁 So...I just want to reassure you that future episodes will be jam-packed with helpful content for you and I will NOT be talking about myself as much! haha! 😆

Resources from this episode:

 Are you a pediatric therapist interested in taking your work with children out into nature? Visit www.contigoapproach.com to join the waitlist for the ConTiGO Approach Online Course.

While you're waiting for the course, join our FREE Therapy in the Great Outdoors Community. We have treatment activities, research, training, a job & volunteer board, and a discussion forum where like-minded therapists are all gathered together to help you take your therapy work with children into the great outdoors! Did I mention it's FREE? Go to therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com to join today!

Welcome back to our series on money and pricing! Today, we’ll dive into the psychology of pricing—a topic that fascinates me!

Key Takeaways from this episode:

Understanding Pricing Psychology:

Pricing psychology is about presenting your prices in a way that’s most appealing to potential customers, increasing the likelihood of them purchasing your services. For instance, have you ever noticed prices often end in .99 instead of rounding up to a whole number, like $2.00? This is because our brains anchor to the leftmost digit; $1.99 feels much cheaper than $2.00. NOTE: this isn’t about "tricking" customers, but is simply understanding how the human brain perceives prices so you can present your prices in a way that is most psychologically pleasing to a potential customer. (Check out Nick Kolenda's website at Kolenda.io for extensive resources on pricing psychology.)

Payment Timing Matters:

It can be psychologically easier for clients if they don’t pay at the time of service. Think about structuring your payment systems so clients pay upfront or at a different time than their service. By doing this, you can ease the sense of loss associated with paying, allowing clients to focus on the value they are receiving at the time of your service.

Combatting Buyer’s Remorse:

After a client commits financially, it’s vital to reassure them that they made the right decision. This can be as simple as sending a follow-up email filled with valuable information that excites them about the upcoming service. In my nature-based practice, we send a welcome packet shortly after families sign up their child for services. This welcome packet includes essential details about what to expect and introduces their therapist, helping clients perceive value from our upcoming services and feel good about their investment right from the start.

TL;DR:

Check out Kolenda.io for more on marketing and pricing psychology, consider structuring your payment processes to ease the psychological burden on clients, and always aim to reassure and provide value immediately after clients pay for services.

Connect with me on Instagram @lauraparkfig or visit therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com for more resources!

Are you charging enough for your services? In this week's podcast, I'm sharing the mindset shift you need to confidently raise your prices.

You need to move away from the traditional per-hour thinking that often limits our earning potential.

Instead, focus on the true value you're providing to your clients and the expertise you bring to the table.

Then, communicate that value clearly and get comfortable discussing money with potential clients.

Whether you're just starting out or have been in business for a while, this episode provides valuable tips to help you embrace your worth and take those necessary steps toward raising your rates.

Repeat after me: THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MAKING MONEY WHILE HELPING PEOPLE!!!!!

My nature-based business coaching program, the Business Hive, will open in January. If you're ready to set your nature-based business up for success, join us in the Hive, where we’ll focus on creating systems that allow you to work less and make more while your business grows.

https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/hive

Connect with me on Instagram @lauraparkfig or visit therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com for more resources and to stay updated!

00:00 Introduction to Therapy in the Great Outdoors

00:59 Excitement for Upcoming Retreat and Travel Plans

02:46 Mini-Series on Business Topics

07:43 Mindset Shift for Raising Prices

08:45 Practical Tips for Pricing and Value

15:10 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, we kick off a mini-series on pricing your nature-based therapy services.

Key Takeaways from this episode:

1. Research what is average for your area and charge a similar amount for your services. Don't set your prices too high or too low at the start because either can be detrimental to your business.
2. Try not to over-explain when telling people what you charge. Say your price and SHUT UP and wait for them to respond.
3. If you are a cash pay business, you can offer scholarships for families to expand the reach of your services to lower-income clients. Always have a system in place before offering scholarships.
4. Raise your prices for new clients after you have a established a proven concept and have raving testimonials from previous clients.
5. Think about VALUE. Offer add-ons that add value for families so they see why they are paying versus going to a standard non-nature-based provider (for example: a weekly update, progress notes, consult minutes, on-call PRN services, home programs, etc.).

  Stay tuned for more episodes in this series on pricing, and consider joining my Business Hive group coaching program, opening for enrollment in January, to help you build a successful nature-based practice! You can join the waitlist at https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/hive   00:00 Introduction and Series Announcement 00:52 My Upcoming Trip to Nepal and Indonesia 02:18 Gratitude and Life Reflections 04:35 Introduction to Pricing Your Services 05:46 Setting Initial Prices for Your Services 07:02 Understanding the Value of Pricing 07:24 The Importance of Silence After Stating Your Price 07:48 Handling Objections and Offering Scholarships 08:47 Investing in Yourself and Your Business 09:59 Researching Funding Options 11:07 Adjusting Prices Based on Cost of Living 12:27 Adding Value Through Additional Services 13:50 Final Thoughts on Pricing and Valuing Your Services

In this episode, we dive into how to make your first $1,000 as a nature-based pediatric therapist. I share actionable strategies and business insights to help you hit this milestone, from focusing on one key service to pricing your offerings effectively. Whether you’re offering outdoor enrichment groups, creating multi-month therapy packages, or thinking outside the box with retainer fees, there’s a method that fits your style and your market.

I also introduce my Business Hive group coaching program for nature-based practitioners, which opens for enrollment in January. Join me for a deep dive into business success and get ready to start building meaningful income in your practice!

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

01:00 Making Your First $1,000 as a Nature-Based Therapist

02:13 Business Coaching and Community Support

04:28 Key Advice for Starting Your Practice

05:24 Market Research and Pricing Strategies 06:04 Low-Cost Offer for Group Sessions

07:03 Multi-Month Therapy Packages

08:06 High Monthly Retainer Fee

08:54 Upcoming Episode on Pricing Services

09:29 Enrollment for Business Hive Program

09:58 Free Big Huge List of Nature-Based Activities

Katie Asmus is a licensed psychotherapist with three decades of experience in therapeutic nature-based interventions. She joined me today on the TGO podcast to discuss the essential role of rituals and ceremonies in nature-based therapy, particularly for neurodivergent children. Tune in to hear ways you can help ease transitions, address challenging behaviors, and open and close your group sessions using meaningful rituals to give children a positive experience in your nature-based therapy sessions.  

Connect with Katie on IG @somaticnaturetherapy or her website https://www.somaticnaturetherapy.com/

00:00 Introduction

01:29 Meet Katie Asmus

01:45 Understanding Rituals and Ceremonies in Therapy

01:57 The Importance of Rituals for Neurodivergent Kids

02:39 Practical Rituals for Therapy Sessions

06:25 Beginning Rituals: Setting the Tone for Therapy

08:28 Engaging Group Activities to Start Sessions

19:23 Closing Rituals: Ending Sessions with Purpose

27:16 Handling Challenging Behaviors with Rituals

31:02 Final Thoughts and Resources

32:03 Bonus: Free Nature-Based Therapy Activities

This week I'm sharing some of my favorite fall activities for outdoor therapy sessions with kids. Check out the activities below and you can do them, too!

Rainbow leaf hunt - arrival activity Leaf confetti with hole punchers or shape punchers (from scrapbooking supplies)

Leaf sewing with yarn and needles

Find the color - match to cut out on cardboard with picture of something to match the color (red heart, orange sun, yellow banana, green frog, blue water, purple flower, brown tree trunk)

What are your favorite activities for therapy sessions in the fall? Weigh in in the Therapy in the Great Outdoors Community here.

https://tgo.circle.so/home

(P.S. If you're down under, here's the listener-feature episode where we shared favorite SUMMER activities.)

https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/podcasts/therapy-in-the-great-outdoors/episodes/2148704557

00:00 Introduction to Therapy in the Great Outdoors

01:00 Fun Fall Activities for Nature-Based Therapy

02:03 Rainbow Leaf Hunt

02:50 Leaf Confetti Party

05:23 Leaf Sewing Craft

06:18 Color Matching Scavenger Hunt

09:09 Join the Therapy in the Great Outdoors Community

10:39 Get Your Free Big Huge List of Nature-Based Activities

In this episode we discuss the often chaotic and challenging first day of a new nature-based therapy group for kids. Everything from clear drop-off procedures and engaging children with meaningful tasks to preparing for social anxiety and ensuring smooth transitions. I also talk about my Nature-Based Therapy Certification and Mentoring Program, designed to support practitioners in building successful, nature-based practices. Join me as I provide actionable tips to make your first day and beyond a success.

01:00 The Reality of the First Day in Nature-Based Therapy

01:34 Challenges and Reflections from a Chaotic First Day

02:34 Strategies for a Smooth First Day

08:05 Effective Drop-Off Procedures

13:20 Connecting with Children on the First Day

19:40 Handling Social Anxiety and Transition Issues

22:10 Conclusion and Support for Nature-Based Therapy Practitioners

In this episode, you'll hear about the journey of launching and evolving the ConTiGO Approach™ and how you can become a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist™ or Therapist Assistant. You'll hear why we're making some changes to the certification process to build a stronger ConTiGO community and support practitioners' developing true expertise in nature-based therapy. Enrollment is now open for you to Become a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist or Therapist Assistant in the ConTiGO Approach! Enroll here 00:00 Introduction to Becoming a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist 00:31 The History of the Contigo Approach 01:37 Transition to Online and Cohort-Based Model 03:53 Challenges and Changes in Enrollment Models 06:29 New Certification Requirements and Community Building 12:12 Experiential Learning and Accountability 14:15 Personal Reflections and Community Engagement 19:22 Conclusion and Enrollment Information

Should you offer groups or individual services in your nature-based therapy practice? It depends! In this episode, you'll learn how to make this decision wisely. I discuss the goals, logistics, and challenges of both service models. You'll learn the importance of clear policies, the role of parents in therapy, and when to choose one model over the other.

Enrollment will open on September 23 for you to Become a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist or Therapist Assistant in the ConTiGO Approach. Join the waitlist here. 00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

01:01 Group vs. Individual Therapy: Key Considerations

02:06 The Benefits and Challenges of Group Therapy

10:43 Essential Policies for Group Therapy

13:49 Individual Therapy: Goals and Best Practices

18:45 The Importance of Parent Involvement

23:49 Conclusion and Upcoming Certification Program

In this episode, you'll learn all about treatment planning for nature-based pediatric therapy sessions using the ConTiGO Approach™. I delve into four key elements: incorporating child passions, introducing novelty, ensuring activities are child-led and open-ended, and considering sustainability.

You'll also learn about recent changes to ConTiGO and how you can become a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist™ (or Therapist Assistant). Enrollment will open on September 23 for you to Become a Certified Nature-Based Pediatric Therapist or Therapist Assistant in the ConTiGO Approach. Join the waitlist here:

https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/contigo-evergreen

00:00 Introduction to Therapy in the Great Outdoors

00:58 Personal Update: A Difficult Time

08:49 The ConTiGO Approach: An Overview

11:48 Elements of the ConTiGO Approach

26:30 Upcoming Changes and Certification

30:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, occupational therapist Brigette Hill, OTR/L joins us to discuss her innovative curriculum designed for teaching pre-writing shapes to pre-k children using nature-based activities. Brigette is the founder of Roly Poly Movement, an online business that develops nature-based curriculum and programs for children. Check out rolypolymovement.com and use code GREAT20 for 20% off of her nature-based pre-writing shapes program, Tree Rings and Other Things.

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

00:58 Guest Introduction: Brigette Hill and Her Innovative Curriculum

02:57 Exploring Pre-Writing Shapes Through Nature-Based Activities

05:44 Incorporating Movement and Music into Learning

11:10 Launching a Product: Insights and Challenges

20:40 Advice for Aspiring Creators and Business Owners

26:52 Special Offer and Conclusion

27:15 Bonus: Free Resource for Nature-Based Therapy Activities

In this episode, we explore the concept of evidence-based practice in nature-based pediatric therapy. Evidence-based practice (EBP) can be broken down into three components: research analysis and application, clinical reasoning, and reflective practice. You'll learn how EBP is more than just understanding various types of research, and understand how clinical reasoning evolves through experience, reflective practice, and community interaction.

Resources shared in this episode:

Mattingly, C. (1991). What is clinical reasoning? The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 45(11), 979–986. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.45.11.979

Research hub: Evidence based practice toolkit: Levels of evidence. (n.d.). https://libguides.winona.edu/ebptoolkit/Levels-Evidence

Schön, D. A. (1984). The reflective practitioner. Routledge.

00:00 Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice

00:56 Understanding Research Analysis and Application

01:28 Levels of Evidence in Research

03:11 The Value of Qualitative Research

10:09 Clinical Reasoning in Therapy

17:14 Reflective Practice for Therapists

20:04 Conclusion and Community Invitation

Wilderness Mental Health First Aid with Nicole Roma Thurrell

In this episode, Nicole Roma Thurrell is back with valuable insights on wilderness mental health first aid. We discussed the importance of body awareness in regulating nervous system responses and strategies for helping children manage different states of activation during outdoor sessions. The episode emphasizes rhythmic, repetitive, and relational activities, with practical suggestions like breathing exercises, grinding coffee beans, and finger knitting. Tune in to hear all her great tips for helping the children you serve be better able to cope with the ebbs and flows of human emotions in daily life. Make sure to visit Institute for Wild Med and get 20% any of their courses with the discount code TGO20 exclusively for our TGO podcast listeners!

00:00 Introduction and Personal Update

00:15 Exciting Upcoming Trip

00:27 Challenges of the Week

01:21 Introduction to the Episode

01:41 Guest Introduction: Nicole Roma Thurl

03:02 Mental Health First Aid Conference

04:37 Increasing Anxiety in Children

06:41 Understanding Wilderness Mental Health First Aid

15:16 The Autonomic Nervous System

23:59 Combining States for Resilience

31:34 Understanding the Dorsal Vagus and Safety Perception

32:32 Body Before Brain: Effective Interventions

35:21 Rhythmic, Repetitive, and Relational Strategies

37:44 Breathing Techniques for Regulation

48:51 High Energy Activities: The Yellow Bucket

50:55 Low Energy Activities: The Red Bucket

54:47 Creating a Safe and Aesthetic Environment

58:48 Conclusion and Practical Takeaways

In episode 78 of Therapy in the Great Outdoors, Nicole Roma Thurrell, WEMT, CTRS is back for the 2nd in our 3-part series on first aid for nature-based therapists. Nicole shares valuable personal anecdotes and real-life examples, highlighting the importance of comprehensive first aid training, especially in dynamic outdoor environments.

You'll learn the "big 3" of assessing life-threatening situations: Breathing, Bleeding, & Shock. You’ll also learn about practical tools like EpiPens and hemostatic agents, and get tips on maintaining their effectiveness despite environmental challenges. Join us to equip yourself with the knowledge to keep your outdoor therapy sessions safe and enriching for the children you serve.

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

01:00 First Aid Series Overview

02:07 Critical First Aid Skills for Therapists

03:03 Personal Anecdotes and Real-Life Examples

04:57 Principles of First Aid Assessment

08:23 Recognizing and Managing Shock

15:21 Bleeding Control Techniques

20:37 Understanding Blood Thinning Medications

21:11 Importance of First Aid Training

21:47 Choosing the Right First Aid Class

22:57 Handling Anaphylactic Shock

24:59 Obtaining and Using EpiPens

32:22 Critical First Aid Essentials

33:41 WildMed Training Courses and Discounts

37:25 Conclusion and Free Research List

For more information, visit Institute for Wild Med and get 20% any of their courses with the discount code TGO20 exclusively for our TGO podcast listeners!

In this episode of Therapy in the Great Outdoors, we kick off a three-part series on first aid essentials for nature-based pediatric therapists.

Joined by Nicole Roma Thurrell, CEO of Institute for WildMed, we delve into the importance of risky play and the benefits it provides, such as building confidence, emotional resilience, and creativity in children. We explore the differences between risks and hazards, offer guidance on managing these elements in therapeutic settings, and emphasize the significance of having a solid foundation in first aid to create a safe and effective therapeutic environment.

Nicole also discusses her extensive experience and upcoming contributions to the series, promising invaluable insights into critical first aid skills and mental health first aid in outdoor settings. Stay tuned for the next episode focusing on must-know first aid skills for nature-based therapists.

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

01:00 Series Overview: First Aid in Nature-Based Therapy

04:44 Guest Introduction: Nicole Roma Thurrell

09:41 The Importance of Risky Play

\21:58 The Benefits of Outdoor Therapy

22:09 Nature's Challenges and Ethical Considerations

23:46 Authenticity in Nature-Based Therapy

24:59 Understanding Risk vs. Hazard

27:02 Role Modeling and Safety Awareness

29:35 Learning Through Failure

30:04 Guidelines for Risky Play

32:10 The Messiness of Nature-Based Therapy

33:07 Encouraging Community and Training

34:58 Equity in Therapy

37:10 Therapist's Energy and Its Impact

39:04 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

Check out Nicole's work at the Institute for Wild Med and get 20% off their classes with the coupon code TGO20.

Today, I’m opening up about the honest, vulnerable moments in my business journey to help you navigate your nature-based business. In this episode, I share the lessons I’ve learned from both major setbacks and ongoing challenges. We’ll discuss how all businesses are messy behind the scenes, regardless of how they appear on social media. I dive into the details of a significant fail-learn experience related to a live event that resulted in a $20k loss, and reflect on an in-person retreat planned for November that hasn’t gone as expected. You’ll learn: 1. All businesses are messy behind the scenes. 2. Embracing honesty about failures is the only way forward. 3. You must analyze your target market size before launching an event or service. 4. It is wise to evaluate what you want to be known for when making business pivots. 5. A key to success is valuing your current and previous clients by honoring their investments. 6. Don’t be afraid to do what you love most in your business. You can learn more about the nature-based business retreat at https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/retreat. Thank you for joining me in this heart-to-heart. See you next week! Bye. Timestamp outline of the episode: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 02:03 The Messiness of Entrepreneurship 03:31 Sharing Personal Business Failures 04:50 The Big Event Failure 06:29 Planning the Nature-Based Business Retreat 09:47 Lessons Learned from Low Enrollment 14:25 Pivoting the Retreat Focus 25:20 Valuing Current and Previous Clients 32:43 Final Reflections and Future Plans 36:14 Upcoming Episodes Preview

This week's podcast episode is the final part 3 of the "audio book" version of my published research on nature-based pediatric occupational therapy. You'll hear the explanation of the design of the model, plus the discussion section, the limitations of this research, and recommendations for future research.

You can get your FREE copy of the article here: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/model

Here's the APA 7 citation:

Figueroa, L. P., Poskey, G. A., Rose, K. K., & Pickens, N. D. (2024). Mechanisms of change in nature-based pediatric occupational therapy: The ecology of change in outdoor therapy model. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 1-22. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380577.2024.2372739

This week's podcast episode is part 2 of the "audio book" version of my published research on nature-based pediatric occupational therapy. You'll hear the results of the study, which found 6 phases that work together as mechanisms of change in the nature-based ⁠pediatric occupational therapy process:   🏠 Longing for Freedom⁠   ☀️ Embarking on Adventure⁠   🦅 Dancing with Nature⁠   🙌 Claiming Self-Agency⁠   ⚡️ Braving Real-Life Challenges⁠   🌱 Growing Adaptive Capacity⁠   Next week will be the 3rd (and final) part of the "audiobook" version of the article, where I'll share the discussion section to give you some takeaways for application to your nature-based pediatric practice.   You can get your FREE copy of the article here: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/model   Here's the APA 7 citation: Figueroa, L. P., Poskey, G. A., Rose, K. K., & Pickens, N. D. (2024). Mechanisms of change in nature-based pediatric occupational therapy: The ecology of change in outdoor therapy model. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 1-22. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380577.2024.2372739

My dissertation research article is finally published! This episode is part 1 of the "audio book" version of the article. You'll hear the abstract, introduction, methods, and the first part of the results, plus a little of my commentary along the way. In the first part of the results, I describe the actors and each actor's main role in the pediatric nature-based occupational therapy process. The actors in the nature-based pediatric OT process are:

Nature as the Continual Context and Blameless Co-Therapist

Child as the Motivated Adventurer

Practitioner as the Attuned Analyzer and Modulator

Caregivers as the Contributing Beneficiaries

Next week on the podcast I'll share the 6 phases of the nature-based OT process and in subsequent episodes I will share the discussion (I'm not sure right now if the discussion section will be one episode or several since there is a LOT to discuss from this research).

You can get your FREE copy of the article here: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/model

Here's the APA 7 citation:

Figueroa, L. P., Poskey, G. A., Rose, K. K., & Pickens, N. D. (2024). Mechanisms of change in nature-based pediatric occupational therapy: The ecology of change in outdoor therapy model. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 1-22. https://doi.org/10.1080/07380577.2024.2372739

In this episode, we dive into the 'Tool for Observing Play Outdoors' (TOPO), a new typology for capturing children's play behaviors in outdoor settings by Lobach and Cox. (If you missed part one, be sure to catch up with episode 98 first!) You'll learn:

• The non-hierarchical framework of TOPO
• Ways to capture the complexity of play when making observations
• How the TOPO can help you plan nature-based treatment sessions for children

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

00:58 Exploring the TOPO Tool for Outdoor Play

04:27 Implications and Applications of the TOPO Tool

10:53 Using the TOPO Tool for Individual and Place-Based Observations

17:24 Alternative Uses and Practical Tips for the TOPO Tool

20:45 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Link to the article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7432422/

It feels like everyone is talking about imposter syndrome these days. And I’ve seen it rear its ugly head in my own career as a nature-based therapist.

If you’re not familiar with imposter syndrome, it is that feeling of “I don’t know what I’m doing” that pops up inside your mind, even when there is AMPLE evidence to the contrary. (That EVIDENCE part is key. Feeling like an imposter when you are a novice at anything is normal! We need to maybe coin a new term “novice syndrome” to acknowledge that being a novice is different than being an imposter.)

In this episode, I share from the heart about feeling like an imposter as a nature-based therapist. You’ll hear a few real-life examples from my own life, and some takeaways to help you if you struggle with imposter syndrome in the realm of nature-based therapy.

One of the key messages in this episode is that you can be a nature-based therapist, just as you are. You don’t have to garden. Or love animals. Or brave icy cold weather. Or be a naturalist. Or climb mountains. You can do nature-based therapy in your own way and you’re still a legit nature-based therapist.

xoxo

Laura

P.S. My article sharing my dissertation research is finally going to be published. I will share free copies when it’s available.

P.P.S. The Nature-Based Business Retreat is happening Nov. 7-10, 2024 in Santa Cruz, CA. Register here: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/retreat

This week I'm sharing some of my favorite summer activities for outdoor therapy sessions with kids. Check out the links below and you can do them, too!

1. Make giant bubble wands for giant bubbles.
2. Make toy boats using recyclables. I recommend corks, rubber bands, large paper clips, sturdy toothpicks, popsicle sticks, duct tape, and small plastic containers. Bring stickers or sharpie markers to allow the children to decorate their creations. (Can pair with the book Toy Boat, too.)
3. Make a mud kitchen using kitchen supplies from thrift stores. Play the Great Nature Baking Show game.
4. Balloon ball volleyball game
5. Make ice cream in the ice cream ball

What are your favorite activities for therapy sessions in the summer? Weigh in in the Therapy in the Great Outdoors Community here.   (P.S. If you're down under, here's the listener-feature episode where we shared favorite WINTER activities.)

It's my 48th birthday today! So I want to give you a present as a thank you for being a listener of the podcast or a member of the TGO Community. I'm giving away a free copy of my book: Therapy in the Great Outdoors- A Start-Up Guide to Nature-Based Pediatric Practice with 44 Kid-Tested Activities. I'll throw some Therapy in the Great Outdoors stickers in there, too!

All you have to do to enter is leave a review for the TGO podcast, screenshot it, and share it on Instagram. Don't forget to tag me @lauraparkfig so I can put your name in the drawing to win the book! If you're not on Instagram OR if you have ALREADY left a review for the podcast (thank you!), you can enter by leaving a review for Therapy in the Great Outdoors on Google here: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Therapy+in+the+Great+Outdoors/@14.1576412,-149.1384369,3z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4a2341b4ba5fa709:0x5cb6536199ef896!8m2!3d14.1576412!4d-149.138437!16s%2Fg%2F11stb6yb0m?entry=ttu

Make sure to send me a DM on Instagram or in the TGO Community after you leave your Google review so that I can put your name in the drawing! I will draw the winner live on Instagram and in the TGO Community on Wednesday June 26.

Also, I want to invite you to come work-cation with me! I'm hosting a nature-based business retreat from November 7-10 in Santa Cruz CA. We have 16 spots left. I'm selecting some really great mentors to help me facilitate this time together. You know how you always wish you had time to step away without distractions and take a 10,000 foot view of your business, so that you can plan and make wise decisions? That's what this retreat is for! You will intentionally set your 2025 annual plan in place so that next year will be your best one yet in your nature-based practice. I hope to see you there. You can register for the retreat here by August 1: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/retreat

xoxo

Laura

In this episode, I'm sharing a template we developed in my practice for sending a monthly newsletter to families. This helps you share free and helpful information with your potential clients, and communicate the unique value of the therapy services you provide. Tune in to hear real examples of things I've sent in our newsletter and the 3-topic template that we use to come up with simple ideas to share with families each month.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:21 Importance of Email Lists in Nature-Based Therapy

01:11 Newsletter Template Overview

03:19 Creating Engaging and Effective Newsletters

04:58 Tip of the Month

08:07 Resource of the Month

10:06 Story and Service Updates

14:53 Conclusion and Contact Information

Resources from this episode:

Flodesk affiliate link to get 50% off your first year of Flodesk (it is the BEST email service provider, hands down. Easiest to use and a beautiful user interface to make emailing your people EASY and FUN.) https://flodesk.com/c/Y63MIS

My previous episodes on email marketing:

TGO Podcast - Email Marketing for Your Nature-Based Practice https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/podcasts/therapy-in-the-great-outdoors/episodes/2147735255

Mind Your OT Business episode- Why You MUST Have an Email List to Grow Your Practice: https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/podcasts/mind-your-ot-business/episodes/2147505784

Ever heard of a "living book"? In this episode, you'll learn how to select and use living books for planning nature-based therapy sessions. I give a brief introduction to Charlotte Mason educational philosophy, which emphasizes the use of living books. Living books are characterized by rich ideas, engaging stories, and timeless truths. They foster creativity and enhance therapy sessions without preaching at children. You'll learn practical tips for selecting and using living books to inspire therapy activities for your nature-based sessions.  

00:00 Introduction to Therapy in the Great Outdoors

01:00 Episode 68: Planning Nature-Based Therapy Sessions

02:06 The Concept of Living Books 03:29 Charlotte Mason's Educational Philosophy

08:10 Using Living Books in Therapy

18:38 Practical Examples and Resources

24:57 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

26:35 Bonus: Free Resources for Nature-Based Therapy  

Resources mentioned in this episode: What a Living Book Sounds Like - Simply Charlotte Mason podcast Falling Upwards by Richard Rohr

Get a free book list from Laura to help you get started using living books in your nature-based therapy practice at https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/books

In this episode, I share the framework we use for planning summer therapy camps in my nature-based therapy practice. I developed this system in 2020, focusing on the emotional journey kids typically experience throughout a camp week. Key themes are established for each day of the camp week with individual therapy goals being addressed within daily activities. Next week on the podcast, I'll share part 2 of this mini-series on camp planning, where I'll share how to choose good books to support your creative treatment planning for therapy camps.

00:00 Welcome to Therapy in the Great Outdoors

00:28 Personal Update & preparations

01:06 Introducing the Summer Camp Planning Framework

02:28 Detailed Breakdown of the Daily Therapeutic Themes

08:44 Exploring the ConTiGO Approach

11:26 Reflecting on the Framework's Necessity and Sharing Resources

13:50 Closing Thoughts and Invitation for Feedback

Get your free copy of the chart of the Therapeutic Themes Framework for Camp Planning here: www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/camp

Over the years coaching nature-based business owners, I've noticed some key things that all successful nature-based entrepreneurs seem to do consistently. Want to know what they are? Listen to this week's episode to get my tips and insights on how to do these 5 things so that your nature-based business can grow to serve more people in your community!

Successful nature-based business owners:

1. Take imperfect action.

2. Commit for the LONG HAUL and don't give up when things get hard.

3. Start small and slowly build multiple revenue streams.

4. Develop systems for every single repeatable process in the business.

a. Recommended resource: Beyond Booked Solid by Michael Port

5. Invest in their business and themselves as leaders of their business.

If YOU are ready to invest in the success of your nature-based business, join us in the Business Hive, my nature-based business coaching program for nature-based entrepreneurs. Enrollment is open till June 1 at 5pm CST. You'll get weekly accountability calls, loads of templates and forms to help you run your business, and my entire Business Bedrocks curriculum to help you systematically set up your business run on auto-pilot as much as possible so that you can work less and pay yourself more as the business grows to serve more people in your local community. You CAN do this...I have and I can help you do it, too!

Enroll now at https://therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/hive-open

In this episode, you'll learn strategies for effectively managing and leading a team in your nature-based business. Occupational therapist Shannon Rolph from Guelph, Ontario, Canada joined me for a live business coaching call. She is the owner of Shannon Rolph OT, and runs Kids in the Woods, a nature-based branch of her business. She has hired her first employees and had questions around how to lead well while growing her business.

You'll learn:

-How to establish policies and procedures up front with employees, while maintaining your autonomy as the business owner to make changes in the future if needed

-Strategies for establishing financial incentives for employees

-Ways to foster team community and engagement in the business priorities and goals

-Why it is important for nature-based business owners to have other nature-based business owner friends

Learn more about Shannon's business at www.shannonrolph.ca or connect with her on Instagram @shannon.rolph.ot

ANNOUNCEMENT! The Business Hive, my nature-based business group coaching program, will open for enrollment on May 27 for a June-December cohort. If you want to set up automated systems so that you can work less and earn more as your nature-based business grows to serve more people, check out the Hive & join the waitlist at https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/hive

If you're a nature-based business owner in the United States, you NEED this information to avoid fines and penalties from the government! This short episode could save you a lot of hassle down the road. I explain the new Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and the requirement that all businesses submit their Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI). Don't worry - it is quick and easy. Takes less than 10 minutes and you only need to do it once (or after any ownership changes in the future).

Go to https://www.fincen.gov/boi to report your BOI for your business. If you existed before 1/1/24 you have till 1/1/25 to report. If you start your business in 2024 or later, you must report within 30 days!

You can get more information at this helpful blog post from my trusted local attorney's office here in Madison: https://www.athenalegalsolutionsllc.com/post/breaking-down-the-corporate-transparency-act-what-business-owners-need-to-know

Jillian Blount is back for a live coaching call here on the TGO podcast! She needed help sorting through options when planning for her summer programming in her nature-based practice. There are LOTS of ideas here to help you when thinking through logistics in your own practice.

[2:11] How you can do nature-based therapy anywhere: ALASKA! Public parks. People's homes. Or your own private land in Alaska like Jillian's family just bought!

[5:30] Navigating extending offers to employees as a very small practice

[6:48] How many logistics there are in owning land to offer nature-based therapy services.

[9:00] How to prioritize what you need to focus on in your business at the right time, even when you're in overwhelm

[10:54] Planning for summer services in your nature-based practice...it doesn't have to look like everyone else's offers!

[12:45] Naming services so that parents understand what they are.

[14:40] How to decide what to charge for your summer services and how to structure them as enrichment or therapy, based on payor sources (Medicaid, private insurance or private pay)

[18:00] Doing the math to determine what to charge, based on what reimbursement or rates are in your area and how much time you spend for yourself or staff to provide the service

[22:00] Important considerations when marketing any outdoor service that is run by a therapist (enrichment or therapy services)

[27:26] The importance of your EMAIL LIST and giving DEADLINES to people Connect with Jillian on Instagram @wildfreekidsot and check out her practice at www.wildfreekidsot.com Other episodes featuring Jillian as a guest:

31: How to Respond to Challenging Behaviors in Nature-Based Therapy Sessions with Jillian Blount, OT

43: Favorite WINTER Nature-Based Therapy Activities for Children

00:00 Introduction to Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy

00:59 Personal Reflections

02:18 Introduction to the TOPO Tool

03:13 Abstract and Relevance of the TOPO Tool

05:38 Development Phases of the TOPO Tool

09:17 Nine Types of Outdoor Play

10:43 Physical Play and Its Subtypes

12:31 Exploratory Play and Its Subtypes

13:32 Imaginative Play and Its Subtypes

15:15 Play with Rules and Its Subtypes

17:32 Expressive Play and Its Subtypes

20:15 Bio Play and Its Subtypes

21:20 Restorative Play and Its Subtypes

23:45 Digital Play and Non-Play Categories

26:28 Conclusion and Certification Information

This week I'm sharing some of our favorite creative snack ideas from my nature-based therapy practice.

1. Color changing tea (find it in the TGO community here)

2. Apple pizzas (find it in the TGO community here)

3. Fun with the apple peeler (in Laura's book)

4. Apple crisp (in Laura's book)

5. Pasta packets (in Laura's book)

Resources mentioned in this podcast:

Therapy in the Great Outdoors: A Start-Up Guide to Nature-Based Pediatric Practice with 44 Kid-Tested Activities

Johnny apple peeler

Spiralizer

ConTiGO™ Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Certification & Mentoring Program

In this episode the dynamic duo Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, CPRCS and Jessica Hill, COTA/L, CPRCS join me to talk all things sensory and primitive reflex integration. Rachel and Jessica are Harkla's in-house Certified OT Assistants and Certified Primitive Reflex Clinical Specialists. Harkla is a company that provides products, courses & community for sensory, autism & ADHD families. They offer loads of helpful tips and strategies on their podcast All Things Sensory and in their courses and workbooks for therapists available through Harkla.  

In this episode, you'll learn:

-SIMPLE sensory strategies to suggest to families to get children outdoors more!

-How we can motivate children to engage more in therapy sessions by fostering their autonomy and encouraging healthy risk in play

-How slowing down during a session might be the best thing you can do for a child's nervous system

-What primitive reflexes are and how they may impact function in children who have retained primitive reflexes

-Simple activities you can do outdoors (even with GROUPS!) that will help children who may have retained primitive reflexes   

Connect with Rachel and Jessica on Instagram @allthingssensorypodcast and follow Harkla @harkla_family   

Resources mentioned in this episode: @myoutdoorsymom account on IG  

The ConTiGO Nature-Based Therapy Certification & Mentoring Program is OPEN for enrollment April 22-30 for our May 2024 cohort! Enroll now to get training, resources, community, & ongoing mentoring to become an expert nature-baed pediatric therapist.

When life gets crazy, it is HARD to keep going as a business owner...even when you have an amazing nature-baed business. This episode is an honest share from the heart about my own lack of motivation lately and lessons I've been learning in the midst of the messiness of life and business.

Some things I'm learning:

-Don't believe the lies you tell yourself so that you can be free to show up for others.

-Personal connection with the people you serve can give you meaning when you don't feel motivated.

-Our feelings may not reflect (in fact, usually DON'T reflect) reality

-Saying NO to really good or even great things is a necessity in entrepreneurship.

And at the end I share some practical things happening in my businesses right now and some recent decisions I've made to pivot after a setback.

I hope this episode encouraged you if you are feeling like you lack motivation right now!

It is normal to have these ebbs and flows of energy in our business ownership and I'm right there with you! xoxo

Laura

Register for the Nature-Based Business Retreat here.

Join the waitlist for the ConTiGO Nature-Based Therapy Certification & Mentoring Program here.

This systematic review and meta-analysis found nature-based interventions have positive associations with behavioral and emotional outcomes for autistic children. The full article and supplemental materials are available here.

Reference: Fan, M., Li, W., Ho, L., Phiri, L., & Choi, K. (2023). Nature-based interventions for autistic children. JAMA Network Open, 6(12), e2346715. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46715

The ConTiGO Approach Nature-Based Therapy Certification & Mentoring Program will open in 2 weeks for a May 2024 cohort. Join the waitlist here to get notified when we open.

Marianna Ayers Sordille, OTD, OTR/L, owner of Whole Child Pediatric OT in Clayton, CA, joined me for a live coaching call to get some help with her nature-based business.

We discussed:

-Niching DOWN in your nature-based practice (but not TOO niched-down) & why it is SO important now to do so

-Communicating value to your potential clients (which is especially important when you're offering therapy services which can be perceived as "expensive" by families)

-Considerations when packaging your services and how to get paid for all your time spent working -Ways to save time when offering packaged services for clients

-Assessing children for therapy services

And along the way we also touched upon some mindset issues commonly experienced by nature-based therapists. They never go away...but with time you learn to recognize them more quickly...and simply having awareness of them helps you to overcome those mindset challenges!

Connect with Marianna on Instagram @wholechildpediatricOT or visit her website at wholechildpediatric.com

Get the Free BIG HUGE List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here!

A short-but-sweet episode for y'all today. I'm sharing a story about how sometimes the plans we adults have for the therapy session don't end up being the most therapeutic parts. Children have their own ideas about how to use materials in nature...and that's part of the beauty of nature-based therapy. One child created a super-fun activity during our group therapy session and I'm sharing it with you here...because it is SO easy and all you need is a rubber band to do it!

Have fun out there! And if you want 120 ideas for nature-based therapy sessions, get the Big Huge List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here.

Jenny Gill is an OT-turned-copywriter focused on website copy and brand strategy. She's worked with lots of nature-based businesses. She came on the podcast today to talk about all things websites! Your nature-based business website can be a way for potential customers to get to know, like, and trust your business and believe in your expertise. But that doesn't matter if no one can find your website online! Jenny's here to help you learn how your nature-based business website can show up on the first page of google in your area. You'll learn simple strategies that you can do TODAY to optimize your website and connect with your ideal clients locally.

Expect to learn:

- How your practice can show up on the first page of google when people search for therapy in your area.

-What search engine optimization (SEO) is and why you should care about it for your nature-based business

-Easy (FREE!) ways you can optimize your website content

-Why the words matter on your website and which words you need to make sure you have on your nature-based business website

-How to structure your website for ease of use by customers as well as optimizing for SEO

-Why you should start with the WORDS on your website first and use images to illustrate the words

-How your website can be a conduit for connection with families and create safety and trust for the children you see

-Considerations when marketing your business on your website (hint: focus on the outcome for your client, rather than the product/service)

Connect with Jenny:

Website: www.jennygillcopywriting.com

Instagram: @jennygill_ot

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JennyGillCopywriting

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-gill-ms-otr-263a2515a

Get Jenny's FREE Hooks, Headlines, and Subject Line Idea Guide.

 Get the Free BIG HUGE List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here!

In this episode, I review the basics of Attention Restoration Theory (ART), which was developed by Rachel & Stephen Kaplan in the late 1980s. It is a widely cited theory today among nature-based therapists. You'll learn:

-How ART explains the concept of nature as an environment that restores attention

-The 4 components of a restorative environment, according to ART

-How ART can help you choose an optimal therapy site for your sessions with children, especially those who have ADHD.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective by Rachel & Stephen Kaplan, 1989.

Get the free BIG HUGE List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here.

In this episode, I share results from a recent systematic review examining the effect of exposure to nature on children's psychological well-being. You'll learn what the literature says about this topic (it's good news but also NOT as great as we might wish for...more research always needed). Plus, I pull out a few practical takeaways for your work as a nature-based therapist. I also give a little mini-lesson on Attention Restoration Theory, and realized I've never done an episode on the topic of ART so stay tuned for that coming next week! See ya then!

References from this episode:

Liu, J., & Green, R. (2023). The effect of exposure to nature on children's psychological well-being: A systematic review of the literature. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 81, 127846. 

Bang, K.-S., Kim, S., Song, M., Kang, K., & Jeong, Y. (2018). The effects of a health promotion program using urban forests and nursing student mentors on the perceived and psychological health of elementary school children in vulnerable populations. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(9), 1977.  

Get the free BIG HUGE List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here.

Kate Glennon MS, CCC-SLP, Certified Nature Educator came on the show this week for a live coaching call. She has a GREAT problem of lots of growth in the early days of her nature-based speech therapy practice! On this live coaching call, we discussed:

-Ways to get focused time to work on your business while raising a young family in a small house (without spending extra money on an office space)

-How to boost your productivity by pairing something positive with the negative business stuff that we all have to do (like taxes)

-Thinking about who to hire & when, once your own schedule as the business owner is full to the brim

-Why bookkeeping is one of the best things you can spend money on early in your business (& recommendations for how to find a good bookkeeper)

-Considerations when hiring employees vs. administrative help for your first hire (there are pros and cons of each)

-Ways to know when you're ready to hire another employee Connect with Kate @outdoorsyslp on Instagram or on her website at outdoorsyslp.com

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Profit First Professionals website to find a bookkeeper who is familiar with Profit First

Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

Get the BIG HUGE List of Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities here!

How are you feeling in your nature-based practice or business right now? In this episode, you'll hear about my current feelings about both of my nature-based businesses, my therapy practice (Outdoor Kids OT) and my online business (Therapy in the Great Outdoors - which produces this podcast for you!).

You'll learn:

-That you are NORMAL if your emotions ebb and flow over the course of your practice/business!

-Tips for choosing the right niche

-Why it is important to think long-term about your work and life

-The importance of knowing how you come to your best ideas/decisions (and how I come to mine.)

-How YOU can give feedback to guide the offerings of Therapy in the Great Outdoors next year in 2025!

Here's the link to the TGO 2024 End-of-Year Survey! Please share your thoughts. All replies are anonymous! https://forms.gle/9o64NtPVeGsA75yg9

In this Ask-Me-Anything episode, you'll hear my answers to TGO Podcast listeners' questions about:

-Using swings and sensory equipment in nature-based therapy sessions

-Renting land from local businesses or private land owners - how to figure out what is fair to pay for rental of the land.

-Doing school observations as a nature-based therapist

-How we can show parents that nature-based therapy is effective and makes a difference

-Parent involvement in nature-based individual therapy sessions with a child

Want 120 ways to get kids outdoors for therapy? Get your copy of the FREE BIG HUGE LIST of 120 Nature-Based Pediatric Therapy Activities right here.

On episode 51 of the TGO Podcast, social worker Tammy Thielman, BSW MSW RSW EMDR-CT EFW-MHP, joins me to talk about her nature-based therapy practice, Town & Country Counselling in Salmon Arm, BC, Canada. You will feel so encouraged & inspired after listening to this episode!   We discuss:

• Tammy's transition into nature-based practice (and why she did)
• How Tammy created her office in a cabin and things she considered in the design of her indoor nature-based therapy space on her property
• Resources Tammy used to get started in her nature-based work and what she's learned about nature-based practice along the way
• Types of children she works with in her counseling practice as a social worker
• How Tammy takes care of herself while working with children who have experienced trauma
• Differences between different professions working in nature-based therapy with children
• Tammy's favorite nature-based therapy activities for children
• How Tammy uses EMDR in her practice

Connect with Tammy on Instagram @townandcountrycounselling or check out her website at www.townandcountrycounselling.com  

Resources mentioned on this episdoe: The ConTiGO Approach Nature-Based Therapy Certification & Mentoring Program