Healing Hike

Healing Hike

About the program

There is evidence that being out in nature has positive healing benefits psychologically. We know that general movement is proven to have healing effects on the body, moving the body releases endorphins, which help to relieve pain and reduce stress, this is why regular gym-goers report feeling happier after a good work out. Check out this resource for more information on the healing effects of movement.


We combine the natural healing effects of body movement, and being out in nature, with proven and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a professional mental health practitioner.


In summary Healing Hikes are counselling sessions while hiking!

How it works

Contact Us!

Contact us and get in touch with our lead Counsellor to arrange a date/time and location that is suitable for you.

Fill out the intake form and consent/disclaimer form

Once we have the date/time/location settled on, we will book you in and send you all the paperwork. This includes a short intake form, and a disclaimer and consent form

Plan and Prepare

Once everything is settled with timing and location and paperwork, there's some planning! Most folks who are regular hikers already have what they need, but some might need to get supplies or gear.


We will send you a recommended gear list of items that are likely needed for a safe and successful hike.

The Team

Mike Stotland, CTTS, CCBT

Wellness Director
Counsellor

Mike will be the lead guide and counsellor on all Healing Hikes. Mike has several years experience in mental health, hiking and mindfulness and meditation studies.

FAQS

Here are answers to some common questions. 

  • Do I need hiking experience?

    While you do not need to be a seasoned pro in hiking, it is recommended that you have a confident level of fitness and mobility. Mike and Courtney will work with you to ensure you have a fun, safe and successful experience.

  • Where will the hikes take place?

    Our goal is to ensure hikes are local to you, but if fitness and mobility are an issue hikes in other locations may be considered. 

  • What will we do exactly?

    While there is not a universal outline of what happens on a healing hike, typically theres a safety briefing at the beginning, hiking, having open dialogue about whatever is on your mind, and a guided meditation.


    If you have ever attended a conventional counselling session before, think of that, but while hiking!

  • How do I book this program?

    You can contact us from the box on this page to get started.

  • Do I need to bring anything?

    Clients are responsible for providing their own food, water, and first aid equipment. As well, clients are also expected to provide their own clothing and gear that is appropriate for the weather and terrain.

  • How can I prepare for this program?

    Our guides will send you helpful resources for any necessary equipment and outlines anything you may need for this program. Beyond having the physical capabilities for this program, a large portion of the focus in on the emotional and spiritual. Keeping an open mind, and being ready and willing to participate in your own healing journey is the biggest thing you can do to prepare.

  • How will I be kept safe in this program?

    Careful consideration is taken into the terrain, weather, and other risk factors on each trail. Extenstive risk assessments are conducted regularly to ensure any location we take clients to is safe. Furthermore, our guides carry GPS/communication equipment, first aid equippment, animal deterrence. We consult with industry professionals on best practices.

    We also carry professional liability insurance and have the confidence that comes with years of training and experience to keep you safe!

  • Is this program right for me?

    This program first is for mental health and wellbeing. This is not a fitness program (see our Couch to Summit program for that).

    The goal is to help you open up and perhaps establish therapueitc goals for yourself, relief stress, or just get some things off your chest.

    This program can be taken by existing clients of Sandalwood Wellness, or those who perhaps want to test the waters before diving into regular counselling.

    This program is not for those needing crisis intervention, or in need of intense therapy. The interventions and style of counselling is light, non-intrusive, and often brief.

Get Started!

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