Our mission is to promote community well-being through nature-based education and shared healing spaces
Our trained volunteer therapists and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coaches lead programs for individuals and communities while advancing evidence-based research on nature's therapeutic and academic impact.
Our Vision
A world where healing and mental health care are accessible to all humans.
Our Programs
FLOURISH Philly
Flourish Philly (a program of The Nature Clinic) partners with schools in South and West Philadelphia to transform underused gardens into outdoor wellness classrooms.
Through guided after-school workshops led by eco-therapists, SEL coaches, and teaching artists, students explore mindfulness, emotional expression, and environmental connection through gardening, creative play, and clay-based art activities.
The program culminates in a student-led showcase and short documentary amplifying youth voices on why mental health and wellness matter in their schools and communities.
Community Healing Circles for Adults
Day-long or half-day workshops designed for adults, educators, and organizations seeking restorative experiences that foster connection and belonging. Each session blends mindfulness, group dialogue, and nature-based practices—helping participants slow down, reconnect with themselves, and cultivate a sense of shared humanity.
Horticultural Therapy for Seniors
An evidence-informed program that uses gardening and nature connection to reduce stress, boost mood, and foster social belonging among seniors and retired individuals.
Research & Advocacy
Through youth-led storytelling, participatory research, and policy partnerships, we gather and share evidence showing how access to nature improves mental health outcomes. We use this data and these stories to advocate for increased investment in school-based mental health resources and green infrastructure across Philadelphia and beyond.
School-Based Healing Gardens for Youth
School-Based Healing Gardens for Youth
A school- and community-based initiative that integrates gardening, mindfulness, and creative expression to strengthen youth mental health. This free program provides after-school workshops and funding to revitalize school gardens and green spaces into healing environments for students.
About The Nature Clinic
The Nature Clinic provides holistic, nature-based healing experiences for people impacted by trauma and systemic barriers to care. Our programs are rooted in the understanding that healing is multidimensional—it must nurture the mind, body, and spirit while rebuilding a sense of connection to community and to the natural world.
Our Unique Approach
We combine evidence-based mental health practices with the restorative power of nature to create accessible, community-centered pathways to wellness.
Biopsychosocial Framework: Each intervention addresses the interconnected biological, psychological, and social factors that influence well-being.
Trauma-Informed Care: We integrate trauma-responsive practices, using tools such as ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) to understand the root causes of distress and design care that promotes safety, trust, and empowerment.
Evidence-Based Practice: In collaboration with local universities, we evaluate outcomes and continuously refine our methods to ensure rigor and impact
Community-Centered Delivery: Our services are offered free of charge or at low cost through trained volunteer therapists and facilitators who reflect the communities we serve.
Our Why:
The Heart of The Nature Clinic
For far too many, healing and genuine rest have become privileges — accessible only to those with income, time, or access.
Our communities — especially Black, Brown, immigrant, and working-class families — have long been taught that our worth is measured by productivity. That burnout is normal. That rest must be earned.
At The Nature Clinic, we believe rest is resistance — and that nature is not a luxury, but a human necessity.
In a world shaped by trauma, disconnection, and constant demand, we offer a sacred pause: a space to breathe, to feel, to reconnect, and to remember that healing belongs to everyone.
Contact Us
The Nature Clinic is in bloom — and you’re invited to grow with us.
We’re in the exciting early stages of building healing-centered programs and forming a passionate team. While we’re not fully open just yet, this is the perfect time to connect and shape what’s to come.
If you're interested in partnering, volunteering, or staying in the loop about our launch, please fill out the contact form or email us at info@thenatureclinic.org.
We'll be in touch soon!