Nature-Based Therapy in St. Paul
We offer individual, couple/partner and family therapy in nearby nature settings throughout Como Park in St. Paul. We have a home office near Como Park that we share (see contact page for address) but most sessions take place outdoors year-round in natural spats throughout Como Park. We avoid high traffic areas and opt instead for more private, natural spaces.
🍂 Therapists will be available in specific locations on different days and times.
🍂 As needed, we can work together to find a meeting location that is accessible by public transportation.
🍂 Being out in all kinds of weather presents challenges and opportunities that will be part of the therapeutic work, but we will never go outside if the weather is too uncomfortable or unsafe. Or if you feel too uncomfortable or unsafe. On those days we can meet over video. or at the indoor office if available.
You are welcome to look through the individual therapists' bios and see who seems like they might be a good match for you. If you have a preferred therapist, please include their name when you complete the contact form. If you are open to working with whoever has availability, we will add you to our general practice waitlist. You will always get a chance to talk with the therapist before starting to see if it feels like a good fit.
St. Paul Therapists
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Rachel sees children, pre-teens, teens and young adults. She works with individuals, families, and sibling groups.
Diana Erwin, MSW, LICSW
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Diana sees children and families of all ages (and can bring her therapy dogs).
Diana's therapy dogs
Rachel Voit (she/her), MSW, LICSW
Diana's therapy dogs
Pika and Bailey can join sessions with Diana.
Rachel Voit, MSW, LICSW (she/her)
Over the past 15 years, I have enjoyed and found deep meaning in working with individuals, families and groups in the outdoors. With experiences in a variety of settings, including summer camp, recreational programs, expeditions, and wilderness therapy, I have a strong foundation of professional knowledge and broad skillsets in the world of nature-based care. As a nature-based therapist, I collaborate with you, your child and the natural world to create a therapeutic experience that is meaningful and edifying.
I serve children, pre-teens, teens and young adults. I work with individuals, families, and sibling groups. Issues that I can help to address include: anxiety, depression, relational challenges, trauma, life changes and transitions, and identity concerns. If you're looking for an experienced and knowledgeable therapist who is genuinely invested in getting to know you and finding ways to help you achieve your goals, then please reach out to schedule an initial consultation call. It would be great to meet you!
Passion is lifted from the earth itself by the muddy hands of the young; it travels along grass-stained sleeves to the heart. If we are going to save environmentalism and the environment, we must also save an endangered indicator species: the child in nature.
Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods
Diana Erwin, MSW, LICSW (she/her)
Hello and welcome! My name is Diana Erwin and I am honored to be part of your healing journey. As a clinical social worker specializing in nature-based therapy here in St. Paul, I believe that healing is most effective when we care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
I have worked for nearly 20 years with children and families who faced challenges in life. I offer a tranquil space where you can pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself through the healing power of nature. I work with individuals, families and their children aged 7 and up who have experienced trauma as well as those who are currently experiencing ADHD, burnout, depression, anxiety, life transition, behavioral and relationship challenges. I understand that navigating these difficulties can feel overwhelming, but I am here to support you with compassion and practical tools.
In our sessions, we’ll explore ways to restore your inner balance using a combination of therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, eco-therapy, and holistic practices. My goal is to empower you to find peace and clarity by fostering a deeper connection to yourself and the natural world around you.
If faith is an important aspect of your life, I am happy to integrate that into our work together, respecting your beliefs as a source of strength and healing. No matter where you are in your journey, I strive to create a nurturing, non-judgmental environment where you feel safe to explore, heal, and grow.
I look forward to walking alongside you on this path toward healing, helping you connect with your roots, find inner strength, and cultivate the peace you deserve.
Pika is a 3 year old Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier therapy dog and loves playing with children and swimming. She is gentle and will share her fluff love with people. Bailey is a 4 year old Border Terrier, smart and has his mind made up. He has been volunteering in schools as a therapy dog. One of them can join your session if you like.
info@forestnaturebasedtherapy.com
Diana is also a certified Forest Bathing guide and offers forest bathing for individuals as well as groups. See her website for details.
Forest Whisper Wellness and Healing
“The Peace of Wild Things” By: Wendell Berry
When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children’s lives might be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.