“Not Just a Walk in the Park: Complex Layers of Integrating Nature Into Play Therapy Practice”

This chapter provides an overview of the current literature that integrates nature and nature-based therapies with the theoretical orientations of Learn to Play and Humanistic Play Therapy. The authors draw of the broader body of knowledge to collate and present data and use this to highlight the need for further research in the emerging field of nature play therapy. Evidencing the biophilic benefits of nature and summarizing the scope of nature play provides some guidance for play therapists wishing to utilize nature play therapy in their own practice. A case study will showcase how nature play therapy may move in and out of the traditional playroom, into the secret garden, cow paddock, chook pen, and ending with a therapeutic walk in the park.