Summary
Branching Out is a project offering ecotherapy for people experiencing mental health problems.
This guide supports mental health staff who want to use nature to help people feel better. It explains how to set up and run woodland-based therapy sessions for adults. These sessions include activities like walking, bushcraft, conservation, and art - all designed to boost wellbeing.
It covers everything you need:
- how to plan the programme
- what equipment to bring
- how to train staff
- how to refer participants
It also shows how to measure success and celebrate achievements. The programme started in Greater Glasgow and Clyde and has helped many people reconnect with nature and improve their mental health.
By following this guide, teams can safely and confidently offer ecotherapy that makes a real difference.