Resources for Therapists Working Outdoors

Resource listings have been gathered to streamline your search.  You are responsible for reviewing the details, costs, and usefulness of the resources shared here.  If you have questions about a specific resource, contact the author directly.  Resource listings are updated once a month.  If you have a resource that supports therapists working outdoors to add, click HERE

Sponsored Listing

The Nature Based Observation System offers a streamlined process and low-tech tools to elevate your occupational therapy evaluations outdoors.  Know what to do, what to look for, and how to quickly record it. This frees up space in your brain for your work with your client— without compromising your ability to produce a quality report at the end.  Developed by Angela Rosenburg of Treeline Enrichment.

Resources to Elevate Your Work as a Nature Based Therapist

Core Board Template to Support Communication Access
Communication is for everyone.  Snag this FREE Canva Template to quickly customize your own core communication board for nature-based therapy sessions. Resource from Angela Rosenburg at Treeline Enrichment
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Hang Swings Without Branches
Check out this short video showing you exactly how to hang swings in the forest WITHOUT accessible branches!  FREE access.  Resource from Angela Rosenburg at Treeline Enrichment. 
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Make Your Own Lycra Layers for Ouside
Check out this short video showing you how to make your own lycra layers to use outdoors.  FREE access.  Resource from Angela Rosenburg at Treeline Enrichment thanks to mentorship from Emily Bryce at Little Fern Forest.
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5 Activities for OT Sessions in the Dark
Sessions don’t have to end when the sun sets.  Embrace the therapeutic opportunities outdoors in the dark with these tips to get you started.  FREE download.  Resource from Marika Austin at Bearfoot OT.   
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Benefits of Nature for Kids Infographic
An evidence-based handout that describes in a, caregiver-friendly way, what the benefits are to being outdoors.  Resource from OTGraphically.
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Therapy in the Great Outdoors Podcast
This podcast is about the business & practice of nature-based pediatric therapy of all kinds.  Hosted by Laura Park Figueroa of Outdoor Kids OT
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Integrative OT Podcast
Integrative OT’s podcast about all things OT; special topics covering sustainability, nature based therapies and lots more! Hosted by Magan Higgins Gramling, OTR/L, CLT, CRP, CFNIP, OTDs
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Lycra Play Tube
Large lycra tube (~128″ circumference) for cooperative activities, connection and sensory input, including sheet with ideas for use. Handmade by Ann Kumpf, a nature based therapist at Go Skipping Stones
Buy the Tube

Let’s Get Outside Activity Cards
Set of 10 laminated outdoor activity cards on a carabiner – each card includes instructions, developmental benefits and bonus tips.  Designed and produced by Go Skipping Stones.
Buy the Cards

Nature Based Superhero Network for OTs YouTube Channel
This is a space where you can learn more about nature based therapy.   There are many interviews highlighting the work of other Nature Based Therapists on this YouTube Channel.  Content hosted by Lisa Haverly of Rainbow Tree Therapies.
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120 Nature Based Pediatric Therapy Activities
A free list of 120 ideas for nature-based therapy sessions + nature-based pediatric practice tips offered by Laura Park Figueroa of Outdoor Kids OT. 
https://www.therapyinthegreatoutdoors.com/list

Books

Coming Soon!

Journal Articles

Burke, H. K., Burke, L. M., Hacker, C. G., & Lane, S. J. (2024). Nature-Based Pediatric Occupational Therapy: A Scoping Review. Physical & occupational therapy in pediatrics, 44(1), 96–109. https://doi.org/10.1080/01942638.2023.2204924

Resources for Your Nature Based Therapy Business

Nature Based Therapy Service Rates
Compare your current outdoor therapy service rates regionally or nationally as of February 2024.  FREE download.  Resource from Angela Rosenburg at Treeline Enrichment.
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Move from 1:1 Hour Rates to Package Pricing
OTs Get Paid Podcast Episode featuring Marika Austin of Bearfoot OT
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How Package Pricing Will Increase Profit
Mind Your OT Business Podcast Episode featuring Marika Austin of Bearfoot OT 
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Building an Intentional Nature-Based Business
Therapy in the Great Outdoors Podcast Episode featuring Kim Wilson of Nature’s Path OT
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