Hello, my name is Anna. After working in family violence, youth homelessness and mental health for over a decade, I found being in nature with people and engaging in an activity with our hands created a feeling of safety for those who struggled to find safety, or had experienced trauma, in traditional therapeutic settings.

I have created a space on my one acre country property which encourages people to engage their senses, have a break from everyday life and improve their overall wellbeing. This done from my renovated 1970’s caravan client space and kitchen garden through activities based on people’s interests and goals and could include gardening, botanic art, lighting a campfire or just admiring the view and having a chat and cup of tea. My goal is to give visitors the opportunity to imagine things differently and see the potential in every situation or object they encounter. The intention is to inspire a positive outlook, hope and creativity they may have not felt confident, safe enough, or had the opportunity to explore in the past.

People can attend for individual sessions or send expressions of interest regarding group options. I am open to creating tailored once off or ongoing group sessions such as team building or for special client groups.
Having managed family violence and youth homelessness crisis spaces, I can consult on improving connection to nature in these spaces which has been evidenced to contribute to more positive therapeutic outcomes across trauma, physical and mental health recovery spaces.

I have a special interest in how Therapeutic Horticulture can be utilised to process and rebuild after experiencing trauma and am looking to connect with those who may be researching or focusing on similar themes. I am currently in the process of designing a family violence recovery group based on Therapeutic Horticultural practice so if this would be of interest as a participant, or you have run a family violence related program, I would love for you to get in contact for further information or potential collaboration.

I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology plus extensive professional development in the areas of Therapeutic Horticulture, Trauma Informed Practice, Family Violence risk assessment and management and Leadership. You can view my work background on my LinkedIn Profile here https://au.linkedin.com/in/anna-nangle-87a336b9 .