Overview*

Nature is the original and most ideal setting for personal reflection. As a wilderness facilitator, I teach methods for re-connecting with the natural world. Some of the techniques I teach draw upon practices of ancient, earth-based cultures, particularly those of North and South America. Most trips last a half-day or less, while Vision Quests are longer trips that last several days. Check the News page for specific upcoming trips. Participate in an series of trips to find out which experiences are the most powerful for you personally.

Vision Quest

Vision Quest is a profound experience in nature that draws upon the rites of passage traditions practiced by many different earth-based cultures around the world.  This transformational experience is offered to groups or individuals.  The first stage of Vision Quest involves preparation: safety precautions and plans, story sharing, preparation for the solo stage, and several teachings and rituals that enable the individual to begin a solo.  The second, solo stage of Vision Quest involves a period of solitude and usually fasting in nature, which is done safely.

Participants maintain only the most minimal amount of contact necessary for safety.  During this time, the participant’s intention is claimed; new parts of the person may be born while old parts may be let go and the individual often discovers strengths of gifts to bring back to his or her community.  In the final stage, the participants return to the base camp, share stories with the group, and learn how to integrate newly-discovered visions and gifts into “regular” life.  Many individuals who have gone on a Vision Quest feel that life is forever changed in a positive way.

Vision Quest is not a form of counseling or therapy and is not suitable for individuals in crisis or those who have recently completed intensive forms of psychological or medical treatment. As a facilitator, I am not in the role of “Counselor”; rather, I am in a very different role of teacher and group leader. Participants must share medical and other relevant information with myself and any other facilitator to ensure that this experience is appropriate and safe.

Medicine Walk

Medicine walks are an excellent way to connect with nature and spend time in introspection. Medicine walks can be facilitated for individuals or groups. Participants prepare with the facilitator and other group members, decide on a question to be asked, and then allow nature to “mirror” the answer while they are walking. The way nature replies to our questions is often amazing; this is an excellent method for cleansing the mind and spirit.

Night Walk

The full moon is traditionally a symbol of shining light into the dark or unknown elements of life. A night walk can illuminate the shadow and bring about new perspectives. Often a night walk turns into a small adventure; it can be an opportunity to confront fears or to simply enjoy the wild and untamed aspects of our beings.

Spontaneous Ritual

This practice allows participants to follow their intuition and create an unplanned ritual with individual meaning and intentions. Often these self-generated ceremonies mark endings or new beginnings that hold great personal significance.

Nature-Based Contemplation and Art

Allow yourself to focus on the natural environment and your mind will become more focused and creative. Nature-based contemplation quiets the mind and enhances our ability to pay attention. Working with natural objects to create art allows us to connect more deeply with the natural world and express our emotions aesthetically.

Despacho Ceremony

A despacho is a gift, an offering to the earth below and the sky above, the sources of everything you need to live. There are many different ways to make despachos; I have learned from the the Peruvian tradition. Learn how to put your intentions and hopes into the despacho and create this beautiful and artistic symbol of gratitude.

Upcoming Wilderness Events

For upcoming trips or events please check here.

*My wilderness facilitation services are separate from my counseling practice. All are welcome participate in these guided trips, but they are not a substitute for mental or medical health services.