We are thrilled to announce that the entire team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Registered Psychologists at Vancouver Psychology Centre (VPC) now has prescription privileges through the innovative PaRx program — a nature prescription initiative developed in conjunction with the BC Parks Foundation. This means that along with traditional therapy, our clinicians can formally prescribe time in nature as part of your treatment plan. It’s a forward-thinking step that underscores our commitment to holistic, evidence-based care. PaRx is breaking new ground as Canada’s first national, evidence-based nature prescription program, and we’re proud to integrate this cutting-edge wellness offering into our practice for the benefit of our clients.
What This Means for Our Clients
So, why is this update so significant for you? In practical terms, having PaRx prescription privileges allows our team to bridge the gap between mental health care and the healing power of nature. Current and prospective clients can now receive a personalized “nature prescription” – much like a prescription for medication, but instead it’s a tailored plan encouraging you to spend time outdoors for your mental and physical well-being. This is more than a feel-good recommendation; it’s an evidence-backed intervention that can complement your counselling sessions. Research shows that connecting to nature can improve health outcomes across a range of issues, from heart disease to anxiety and depression. In other words, adding nature to your self-care routine can magnify the benefits you experience in therapy.
For you, the client, this integration means an expanded toolkit for wellness. We’ll be able to formally include nature time as part of your treatment goals, provide guidance on how to do it effectively, and even offer resources (like park maps or activity ideas) to help you get started. Importantly, you won’t be doing this alone – your counsellor will discuss and personalize your nature prescription to fit your lifestyle and needs, ensuring it’s realistic, enjoyable, and impactful.
Evidence-Based Mental Health Benefits of Nature
Why are we so excited to prescribe nature? Simply put, the mental health benefits of spending time in nature are remarkable. Decades of research have turned up compelling findings about how outdoor time boosts our well-being. Here are just a few of the evidence-backed benefits you can expect from a regular dose of nature:
- Boosts overall well-being
- Reduces stress levels
- Improves mood and mental health
- Enhances cognitive function
- Increases happiness
- Builds resilience (for all ages)
It’s important to note: these benefits aren’t limited to adults. While VPC primarily serves adults, children and teens can also experience these gains.
How the PaRx Program Works
How does a nature prescription actually work? It’s simple and personalized. When you receive a PaRx prescription from one of our clinicians, it will outline a custom annual plan for time in nature tailored to you. Based on PaRx guidelines, we typically recommend aiming for at least 2 hours per week in nature, in intervals of 20 minutes or more. Your counsellor will help determine what’s realistic for you – whether it’s a daily 20-minute walk in a local park, a weekend hike, or even sitting on a balcony surrounded by plants.
Your nature prescription is a written document that you can take with you. It serves as a friendly reminder of your commitment to outdoor self-care. We’ll likely check in on how it’s going in our follow-up sessions, celebrating your experiences and adjusting your “dose” as needed. Think of it as a personalized wellness plan that harnesses nature’s healing power, crafted just for you.
Unique Perks with a PaRx Prescription
Thanks to PaRx’s partnerships, VPC clients who receive a nature prescription will enjoy perks such as:
- Free Parks Canada Discovery Pass – Access to over 80 national parks and historic sites for one year
- Complimentary admission to the Vancouver Art Gallery’s Emily Carr exhibit
- Free or discounted access to UBC Botanical Garden, Nitobe Garden, and more
- Ongoing perks from new PaRx partners like equipment rentals and cultural sites
Embracing PaRx at VPC – Our Commitment to Your Wellness
Our entire team is proud and excited to integrate PaRx nature prescriptions into our practice. We truly believe this initiative is a game-changer for holistic mental health care. By formally bringing the proven healing effects of nature into our counselling work, we’re enhancing the support we offer you – helping reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall quality of life in a way that feels enriching and empowering.
We’re delighted to prescribe a little nature in your life. It’s an honor to help you tap into the restorative power of the natural world as part of your healing journey.
