What makes nature-based psychotherapy different from simply taking therapy outdoors? In this episode Will speaks with licensed mental health counselor Lindsay Cray, founder of Integrating Nature, about how the natural world can become an active partner in trauma treatment. Lindsay traces her path from seeking safety in the woods during a turbulent childhood to working in conservation, environmental education, and mental health counseling. She explains how nature can support nervous-system regulation, expand sensory awareness, and help clients experience safety, connection, and resilience in ways that may be difficult to access in a traditional therapy office.
Lindsay also introduces her 12-week Core Calm framework, which brings together ecotherapy, mindfulness, experiential activities, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and narrative therapy. Drawing on her work with veterans, first responders, and other emergency service professionals, she shares powerful examples of helping clients recognize hypervigilance and practice distress tolerance in safe outdoor settings. The conversation also explores what therapists need to know before integrating nature into clinical practice—including informed consent, accessibility, weather, risk management, professional training, and developing their own authentic relationship with the natural world.
This podcast is supported by the White Mountain Adventure Institute (WMAI.org), where Dr. Will White helps individuals, leaders, and organizations navigate growth, change, and life transitions through coaching, consulting, and retreats.
Lindsay Cray's website and bio is- https://www.integrating-nature.com/about