The Mental Health Benefits of Nature

Stress Reduction:
- Nature acts as a natural stress reliever. When we step outside, our sympathetic nervous system (responsible for stress responses) can regulate itself within five minutes. So, whether sitting on a park bench or hiking through a forest, spending time in nature helps lower stress levels.
- Regular exposure to nature may prevent cumulative stress effects, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve overall well-being.
Coping with Mental Health Conditions:
- Nature serves as an effective coping strategy for various mental health conditions:
  - Depression: Spending time outdoors can alleviate depressive symptoms.
  - Anxiety: Nature provides calmness and joy, reducing anxiety levels.
  - PTSD: Nature-based therapy can be beneficial for those with post-traumatic stress disorder.
  - ADHD: Being in green spaces enhances attention and focus.
Examples of Connecting with Nature:
- Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku): Immerse yourself in a forest, mindfully absorbing the sights, sounds, and scents. It’s like a sensory reset for your mind.
- Gardening: Tending to plants and flowers in your backyard or community garden can be therapeutic.
- Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll in a nearby park or nature reserve.
- Picnics: Enjoy a meal outdoors, surrounded by greenery.
- Outdoor Yoga or Meditation: Combine mindfulness practices with the healing power of nature.
- Hiking or Trail Running: Explore trails, breathe fresh air, and let nature invigorate you.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING

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Wonderful. I refer many of my clients to their office and have had nothing but praise for their services.

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Dr. Lepage and her team are trusted, experienced and dedicated professionals at the top of their field. As a family law attorney, I refer clients to Lepage with the confidence…

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As a mother of two children and a divorce attorney, I can give both my personal and professional opinion that Lepage Associates provides excellent services to families throughout the Triangle.…

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Very professional and experienced psychologists. Through my law practice, I’ve spoken with several individuals who have used the services of Lepage Associates for divorce therapy, family therapy, child therapy and…

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Clients I have sent to Lepage have provided consistently positive feedback about the service provided. Lepage Psychological and Psychiatric Services is very strong in assisting divorcing families set up parenting…

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As a family law attorney, I interact with Lepage and Associates in multiple capacities, such as providing therapy to clients, the other party, and their kids, helping reunify fractured families,…

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The clinicians at Lepage are so tuned in to the needs of both adults and children experiencing divorce. They are sensitive, up-to-date on the most recent research about what these…

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Dr. Lepage and staff are very thorough. They truly dig into family issues during the most unfortunate times like divorce to make every effort to ease pains to everyone. Unfortunately,…

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Dr. Lepage worked with my family for several months. She provides care with professionalism and sensitivity. I highly recommend her!

L.W.

My family benefited a number of times from Dr. Lepage’s expert guidance. I found her to be professional, thoughtful, and balanced. I knew her to be highly regarded in the…

Anonymous:

I highly recommend the services of Lepage and Associates. All staff members my family worked with were helpful, informative and easily accessible. I would not hesitate to use their services…

M.S.

I can reliably count on Lepage Psychological Services to delivery top notch care. They are consistently professional, caring, and effective in their treatment. I would highly recommend them to anyone…

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T.B.

Lepage and Associates are a caring, skilled, and gifted group of clinicians who have helped so many people in the community. They are led by Dr. Tina Lepage who is…

M.S.

Professional and exceptional mental health care.

T.E.

Their professionalism is top notch and they take sincere interest in the best care of their clients. I highly recommend Lepage Associates.

S.N.

My husband and I had a great experience with Rae Ann who addressed all of our issues with a kind, empathetic and inquisitive nature. We were able to resolve communication…

A.R.

I worked with Cheryl Cohen of Lepage on a family matter. Cheryl was very caring for all involved and was great to work with. I valued her input and highly…

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Fantastic clinical services with expert team of clinicians!

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One of the finest practices I’ve encountered. Excellent work!

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Highly recommended, very diverse staff that can understand and relate to all walks of life. Professional environment and excellent location. Five Stars!

S.S.

I’m always surprised how supporting and caring they are. I’ve had multiple really positive experiences. Thank you for your help when I really needed it.

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Anonymous:

Lepage Associates is an outstanding practice. The quality of their services is top-notch and their integrity is second to none. I highly recommend them!

D.V.

Dr. Lepage has a remarkable staff working alongside her. They all have different specialties and different therapeutic techniques, but they all work together to serve their clients. They offer so…

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