From Trail to Community: My Experience Presenting at REI
On 3/15/2026, I had the opportunity to step into a space that felt incredibly aligned with both my personal and professional passions—presenting at REI Marlton.
As a therapist and nature-based practitioner, moments like these feel like a full-circle experience. Being able to bring together mental health, hiking, and community connection in one room is exactly why I do this work.
A Collaborative Experience
I had the pleasure of co-presenting alongside Leslie, who led a thoughtful and practical discussion on the Ten Essentials of hiking. Watching participants engage with the gear, ask questions, and think more intentionally about how they prepare for time outdoors was such a valuable part of the experience.
My role focused on something equally important, yet often overlooked—the connection between time in nature and our mental health.
Why Nature Matters for Mental Health
During the presentation, I shared how hiking and spending time outdoors can support emotional well-being in meaningful ways:
Reducing stress and calming the nervous system
Improving mood and decreasing symptoms of anxiety and burnout
Enhancing focus, creativity, and problem-solving
Creating space for reflection and clarity
We also explored how mindful movement in nature can help people feel more grounded and present—something many of us are craving in the midst of busy, overstimulated lives.
Creating Space for Real Conversations
What stood out the most wasn’t just the information shared—it was the energy in the room.
Participants asked thoughtful, honest questions about:
Getting started with hiking
Managing fears and uncertainty
Trying something new
The role of therapy and mental health support
There was openness. Curiosity. Connection.
People weren’t just there to learn—they were there to grow.
The Power of Community
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was hearing others share their experiences. It became more than a presentation—it became a shared conversation about stepping outside of comfort zones, both on the trail and in life.
That’s what spaces like REI can offer when community and intention come together.
Bringing It Back to My Work
Experiences like this reaffirm why I integrate nature into my practice at Inner Strength Counseling Services, LLC.
Through Walk & Talk therapy and mindfulness-based outdoor experiences, I see firsthand how powerful it can be to step outside—literally and emotionally.
Nature has a way of softening defenses, creating flow in conversation, and helping people reconnect with themselves in a deeper way.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
I’m incredibly grateful to the team at REI for hosting us and creating such a welcoming environment. It was a reminder of how important it is to build bridges between mental health and community spaces.
This is just the beginning. I’m looking forward to continuing to connect, collaborate, and bring more conversations like this into the community.
And of course… I hope to see you out on the trail. 🌲
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’ve been thinking about getting outside more, prioritizing your mental health, or trying something new, this is your invitation.
I currently offer:
Virtual therapy for women in NJ, FL, and SC
Walk & Talk outdoor therapy in NJ
Mindfulness-based community events and hikes
Whether you’re looking for support, connection, or simply a place to start, you don’t have to do it alone.
Resources & Community
If you’re looking to get started with hiking or find a supportive outdoor community:
Visit REI Marlton for gear, classes, and local events (official REI website: https://www.rei.com/)
Explore Hikerbabes, a free community for women who love the outdoors
I’ve been a member of Hikerbabes since 2021, and through this community I’ve met so many incredible women who have become close friends. The hiking community truly has a way of bringing people together in meaningful and lasting ways.