What is outdoor therapy? An introduction to working outdoors

A clear distinction: understanding different approaches to outdoor therapy

The Institute of Outdoor Learning provides a three-zone model that helps differentiate various types of outdoor therapeutic practices. This model is especially useful when navigating the different therapeutic offerings available and selecting the one that best suits your needs. One key factor to consider is the competence of the person leading the session, specifically their knowledge and skills in both mental health and outdoor learning.

Additionally, it’s important to assess how nature is integrated into the therapeutic session. How much of the natural world is actively incorporated into the experience? Is it part of the conversation during therapy, or is it more of a subtle background presence? Depending on how these questions are answered, outdoor therapy can range from “walk and talk” sessions or general outdoor therapy, which often mirrors indoor therapeutic techniques, to more structured programs that incorporate nature or nature-inspired symbolism into the therapeutic process.

Regardless of the approach, nature plays a significant role in every session, quietly accompanying individuals on their journey of self-exploration. Whether we engage with it explicitly or allow it to remain in the background, nature supports us in ways both seen and unseen.

Types of outdoor therapy

Outdoor therapy is a broad term that encompasses various therapeutic approaches conducted in natural settings. Based on the three-zone model developed by the Institute of Outdoor Learning, outdoor therapy takes many forms and names. Below is a summary of some of the most recognised types of outdoor therapy. However, due to the wide range of activities that can take place outdoors, this list is by no means exhaustive. It is simply an attempt to highlight key approaches within this diverse and evolving field.

Animal-assisted therapies and interventions

These therapeutic programs involve working with animals to support emotional and psychological well-being. In both cases, the facilitator must be trained and competent in working with the specific animal involved. However, there is an important distinction between animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and animal-assisted interventions (AAI):

• Animal-assisted therapy is facilitated by a qualified therapist and focuses on building a therapeutic relationship between the client and the animal. 
• Animal-assisted interventions (also known as animal-assisted learning) provide opportunities for individuals to relax and engage with animals in a non-clinical setting, offering emotional support and stress relief without a structured therapeutic framework.

Adventure Therapy and Wilderness therapy

Adventure therapy is an experiential therapy model that incorporates outdoor challenges—such as rock climbing, canoeing, sea kayaking, and hiking—to support psychological healing and personal growth.

Wilderness therapy is a specialised form of adventure therapy. As described by The Wilderness Foundation UK, wilderness therapy integrates challenge, self-reflection, and teamwork in a natural setting. It follows principles such as no-force confrontation, expanding comfort zones, open communication, and symbolic/metaphorical experiences. In this approach, nature itself acts as a co-facilitator of the healing process, with the therapist guiding and supporting the experience.

The duration of adventure and wilderness therapy programs can vary widely—from single-day outdoor sessions to multi-day immersive expeditions that involve camping, hiking, and survival skills with a therapeutic focus.

In recent years, several courses have emerged that teach therapeutic approaches to working outdoors (such as the BA (Hons) in Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland).

However, it’s important to note that these courses focus on integrating outdoor practices into existing therapeutic work rather than training someone to become a therapist. Some programs are designed for qualified therapists looking to incorporate nature-based methods into their practice, while others offer general therapeutic skills for working outdoors without requiring a formal therapy background.

Therapy outdoors (Walk-and-Talk Therapy / Outdoor Therapy)

Also referred to as “walk-and-talk” therapy or “outdoor therapy,” this model closely resembles traditional talk therapy, except that sessions take place in outdoor spaces. Unlike other forms of outdoor therapy that actively incorporate nature into the therapeutic process, therapy outdoors often treats nature as a neutral therapeutic setting rather than a therapeutic tool.

It’s worth noting that the term “walk-and-talk therapy” can feel limiting and ableist, as it implies that movement is required for participation. For this reason, I prefer using the more inclusive term “outdoor therapy” to describe my practice. When I integrate wilderness therapy, the approach shifts to a more nature-immersive and experiential therapeutic process.

Therapeutic farming and therapeutic horticulture

Also known as therapeutic gardening, this approach involves farming, gardening, and working with plants as a way to promote emotional well-being. It is often conducted in farms, allotments, or community gardens, where clients engage in cultivating plants, growing food, and connecting with the rhythms of nature. These programs provide a sense of routine, purpose, and grounding, making them particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, or social isolation.

What does outdoor therapy help with?

Outdoor therapy can support a wide range of emotional and psychological struggles. A substantial body of research highlights the healing power of nature, showing how time spent outdoors positively impacts mental health. Over the past two years, during the global health pandemic, many of us have either experienced firsthand, heard from others, or seen on social media how nature became a refuge, offering relief for our physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Additionally, research underscores the importance of movement in enhancing mental health. Engaging in physical activity—whether through walking, hiking, or simply being outside—supports overall emotional regulation, stress reduction, and a sense of well-being.

Outdoor therapy can support a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, but it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each person’s therapeutic journey is unique, and what feels healing for one individual may not be the right fit for another. While some people find that being in nature helps with feelings of anxiety, low mood, or self-doubt, others may feel exposed or unsettled in an open environment. The key is finding what works best for you—whether that’s walking side by side with a therapist, sitting in a quiet green space, or engaging in more structured nature-based activities. Outdoor therapy offers flexibility and choice, allowing the therapeutic process to unfold in a way that feels safe and supportive for each person.

By stepping into a more expansive, dynamic environment, therapy outdoors encourages embodiment, presence, and deeper self-awareness in ways that traditional indoor settings may not.