Welcome to Nature-Based + Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Our nature-based and animal-assisted therapy is a unique approach to healing that harnesses the therapeutic benefits of nature and meaningful interactions with animals and plants. Set in a peaceful and welcoming farm environment, this form of therapy provides clients with the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities like tending to gardens, caring for animals, and cultivating herbs.
Farms plays a central role in fostering physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Interacting with animals encourages mindfulness and builds trust, while planting, harvesting, and working with herbs promote relaxation, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. This holistic approach connects individuals to the rhythms of nature, allowing them to build life skills, reduce stress, and find purpose.
Whether it’s the calm of feeding animals, the satisfaction of harvesting fresh produce, or simply enjoying the soothing surroundings, care farm therapy offers a safe space for growth, healing, and self-discovery.
Reconnect, restore, and heal—because sometimes, the best therapy begins on the farm.
Gardening + Horticulture Therapy
Planting, tending to, and harvesting vegetables, herbs, and flowers. This hands-on activity encourages mindfulness, improves mood, and provides a sense of accomplishment.
Animal-Assisted
Therapy
Engaging with farm animals like chickens, goats, sheep, or horses. Activities include feeding, grooming, and simply spending time with animals to foster trust, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.
Sensory + Herbal Interaction
Exploring the sensory benefits of herbs and plants by touching, smelling, and learning about their uses in cooking, teas, and wellness practices. This promotes relaxation and an increased awareness of natural healing resources.
Community
Engagement
Opportunities for children, teens, adults and groups to volunteer on the farm enable the community to connect with nature and serve the non profit.
Meet the Nature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy Team
Kayla Parker
LMSW
Animal-assisted + Nature-based Certified
Abby Cooper
LPC
Animal-assisted + Nature-based Certified
FAQs
Who is the program for?
Children must be 7 years or older to participate.
What should clients wear?
Please wear:
- Closed-toe shoes
- Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather
- Sunscreen or a hat if desired
- Layers during cooler months
Because this is a working farm, clothing and shoes may become dusty or dirty.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Nature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy takes place outdoors whenever it is safe to do so.
If weather conditions make it unsafe, your therapist will contact you to discuss rescheduling or an alternative plan.
Is Nature-base + Animal-assisted Therapy safe?
Yes. Safety is a priority. Clients receive an orientation to the farm, and therapists supervise all activities.
Clients are expected to follow all farm safety guidelines and therapist instructions at all times.
Can parents, caregivers, or siblings stay during sessions?
No. To protect client confidentiality and maintain a safe, therapeutic environment, parents, caregivers, siblings, and other family members who are not participating in the scheduled therapy session may not remain on the farm or walk around the property during Nature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy Program sessions.
If a parent or caregiver is participating in a planned family session, the therapist will provide specific instructions. Otherwise, parents and caregivers are asked to drop off clients (when appropriate) and return at the scheduled pick-up time. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best plan based on the client's age, developmental needs, and treatment goals.
Is Nature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy covered by insurance?
Yes. Therapy sessions are billed the same way as office-based therapy when covered by your insurance plan.
Please contact Children's Home Counseling Services to verify your insurance benefits.
Does Nature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy cost more?
No. Therapy sessions are billed the same as traditional counseling services.
Where are sessions held?
We partner with two local farms: Warm Springs Care Farm in Boise and One by One Foundation in Meridian.
What should I know before the first visit?
To help your first visit go smoothly:
- Complete all required intake and consent forms.
- Wear closed-toe shoes.
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Arrive a few minutes early.
- Leave pets at home.
- Follow all farm safety instructions.
- Expect therapy to take place outdoors whenever conditions safely allow.
Still have questions?
If you have questions about our NNature-based + Animal-assisted Therapy , including insurance, scheduling, or whether this therapy is a good fit for you or your child, please contact:
Children's Home Counseling Services
Phone: (208) 343-7797
You can also speak with your therapist or our intake team for more information about the program.
