About Us and Nature
Outdoor Therapeutics is dedicated to improving mental health through clinical and wellness programs that realign connections between mind, body, spirit, and the natural world. We do this by integrating evidence-based therapeutic approaches with resources in nature that are scientifically proven to benefit human wellness, such as exposure to green space for nervous system stabilization. This dedication to returning humans to their natural habitat results in comprehensive and unique clinical offerings such as nature-integrated trauma treatment and wilderness-based wellness programs. We utilize the natural world to the degree clients are comfortable, such as introducing plant care into office sessions, having “walk and talk” sessions along the river, or having extended clinical sessions outdoors focusing on wildlife and the landscape as a source of metaphor, reflection, inspiration, and healthy attachment.
Trauma-Informed & Responsive Practice
Outdoor Therapeutics is rooted in the values of trauma-informed and trauma-responsive practice. This means we are committed to a process of learning and applying knowledge of trauma to our thinking, behaviors, services, and workplace culture in order to increase capacity for safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment in our relationship to others and ourselves. As part of this commitment, we seek ongoing guidance from outside professionals and resources, such as the Trauma Responsive Frederick (TRF), trauma-informed clinical supervisors, and anti-oppression frameworks to help us with organization-wide accountability and our continued journey to know better and do better.
Our Team
Kris Bajgier, LCSW-C, MEd
Founder, Nature-Informed Trauma Therapist
Supports: Ages 14+
Specialty: Complex and acute trauma, attachment deficits, sexual abuse and survivor recovery
Heather Smith, LCPC
Clinical Director, Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Supports: Ages 14+
Specialty: Treatment of complex and acute trauma, dissociative disorders, couples counseling
Alyssia King, LMSW
Therapist, Social Worker
Supports: Ages 5+
Specialty: ODD, ADHD, LGBTQ+ affirming, complex and acute trauma, anxiety & depression
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Susanna Klingler, LGPC
Mental Health Counselor
Supports: Ages 10+
Specialty: Addiction, co-occurring diagnosis, complex & acute trauma, mood disorders
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Bryan Bieniek, LGPC
Nature-Informed Therapist, Wilderness Guide
Supports: Ages 14+
Specialty: Wilderness and Rites of Passage, Guided Day Hikes
Accepting new clients​
Logan Ross, LMSW
Nature-Informed Therapist
Supports: Ages 12+
Areas: Complex & acute trauma, anxiety and depression, addiction, relationship challenges
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