Development of a Nature-based Physical Activity Toolkit for University Counseling Centers

For this study, our research team partnered with two CAPS therapists to develop a new therapy group called Moving Naturally Through Challenges, which focused on nature-based physical activity as a tool for managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Prior to group implementation, the researchers and therapists collaborated to develop a detailed implementation handbook with weekly lesson plans for the eight group therapy sessions. Next, we conducted a 2-hour training workshop with all CAPS staff to familiarize them with the content and empower them to refer students to the group.

This intervention was delivered as part of group therapy services offered by CAPS. Students seeking services at CAPS whose primary presenting concerns were depression and/or anxiety were encouraged to consider joining the Moving Naturally group. Interested students attended a 30-minute pre-group screening meeting with the group facilitators to ensure it was a good fit for their needs, and then signed a consent form to formalize their enrollment in the study.

The therapy group ran during the spring semester for 8 weeks. Each session lasted 1.5 hours, and included a weekly discussion topic, applied activities for students (e.g., goal setting and planning), and 30 minutes of nature-based physical activity. Activities included walking, hiking, yoga, outdoor games, resistance training, and sport-based activities that were moderate in intensity. Each participant received a Fitbit, yoga mat, resistance band, and water bottle to bring to each session. The group facilitators received training in group fitness instruction prior to leading the group sessions.

To assess changes in mental health outcomes, all students completed the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms upon intake at CAPS, and again upon completion of the therapy group. In addition, students rated their enjoyment of each group therapy session using the Group Session Rating Scale. Participants were asked to wear their Fitbit 24/7 (except when charging) throughout the 8-week duration of the study, and our research team is able to access their data using the Fitabase platform. Additional data and feedback were collected from the therapists who attended the training and facilitated the group.