Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this called MINNEAPOLIS or St. Paul Nature-Based Therapy? Do we have to live in those cities
Good question. Kari has lived and worked her whole adult life in Minneapolis, so when she decided to start this practice in 2021 it felt right to locate it solidly in this city and its green spaces that she knows and loves.
Then when some other therapists joined who live and work in St. Paul we wanted to support them to offer therapy in Como Park,, a place that they know and love and want to share with clients.
By including city names in describing our practices we want to make it clear that we embrace the beautiful diversity of these vibrant urban areas, and that this is not the kind of nature therapy that requires field trips out into the wilderness; nature is right outside whatever doors we live and work and study behind.
But to answer the question, it doesn't matter where you live, as long as you can get to the locations where we offer sessions.
Can siblings participate in sessions?
This will be explored on a case by case basis. Many times siblings can be included in the sessions. This will look different depending on what the treatment goals are. For example, if a 3 year old is struggling with a new baby in the family we might settle the parent and baby in a comfortable spot under a tree while therapist helps the older child experience a pattern of exploring at a safe distance while staying connected to the parent (with an “invisible string”), then bringing back treasures to show the parent. The parent will be working on using their attention and voice to help the child feel connected from a distance, and welcoming them back with great pleasure. In cases with two older siblings, we can work directly and experientially on cooperation and problem solving.
Do parents always have to participate in the sessions? Do you do individual work with children?
With younger children 6 and under an adult will always have to be a part of the session. For older children we may consider a combination of family and individual sessions.
Do you do individual work with parents?
Yes. Some work with parents without their children present is always a part of therapy, especially at the beginning as we are learning about your family and history. And in some cases ongoing individual work with parents or other caregivers is the best intervention to help the child.
Not all who wander are lost.
~ Tolkien