“Environments, free from human impact, are deeply reflective and creative spaces where the outer landscape works with you to reveal your inner world.”

I am a psychotherapist working in private practice and academia, specializing in the role of nature in self-development. I have researched and crafted my approach to mental health by combining the power of psychology with the experience of being in nature.

Taking therapy outdoors

I realised early on in my career that when it comes to psychological health and development, our connection with the natural world can be as important as human relationships. This inspired me to take my therapy practice outdoors. My work has ranged from working with people in clinical settings to leading programs in remote locations such as the High Atlas Mountains. My wilderness programs are ranked in The Times and SELF Magazine’s top twenty life-changing experiences, helping hundreds of people overcome acute anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, and loss of sense of self.

Research

I have extensively researched how nature affects the self. Most recently, I conducted a global study interviewing people with exceptional experiences of being alone in nature, and used the findings to develop a methodology for people to weave the power of nature into their everyday lives. I lecture and led workshops on this topic worldwide.

Exploring psyche and place

I am fascinated by the ways in which physical places affect the human psyche. In 2017 I directed The Moving Theatre, a documentary exploring people’s experiences of migration. The film won ten international awards, including best documentary at the London Independent Film Festival and The National Film Awards in the UK. I have also directed large-scale community art projects helping local communities explore their relationship with their physical environment. Several of these projects have been exhibited at institutions such as The Centre for Social Change and Kingston Museum in London.

Working with organisations

I am the chief psychologist of Artgym, an international consultancy that promotes creativity in the workplace, helping organisations such as Adidas and Sony Music to create healthy, collaborative, and creative working environments.

Academic background

I am clinically trained and certified, and registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapy, Health Care Professions Council, and the British Association of Art Therapy. My doctoral research focused on how nature affects the self.