Approach.

Evidence-based and client-driven, Taproot’s approach focuses on the inherent therapeutic benefits of nature and nature-based play to support collaborative goal-setting and therapy planning.

Two children in winter jackets and beanies building a teepee with sticks in a forest.

Nature-Based Therapy

Working with the great outdoors for group-based therapy offers a dynamic and sensory-rich environment to challenge ourselves, learn new skills, and develop connections - with nature, with other people, and within ourselves.

We believe that partnering with nature during the therapy process encourages meaningful experiences, which enhance carryover of skills and learning to everyday life outside of the group therapy setting.

Taproot follows the nature-based ConTiGO Approach and draws on teachings from Ecotherapy, Attention Restoration Theory, Sensory Integration, and the Theory of Loose Parts among other theories.

A man and a young girl playing in the snow outdoors with evergreen trees in the background. The man is dressed in a red jacket, gray pants, red beanie, and glasses, while the girl wears a pink checkered jacket, black pants, white knit hat with a pom-pom, and pink gloves.

ConTiGO Approach

Our clinicians are certified in the ConTiGO Approach, an evidence-based therapy approach implemented in nature to support children to reach their goals. ConTiGO is based on Connection and Transformation within the Great Outdoors. 

Connection

Group-based sessions offer connection, by including peers and sometimes caregivers to enhance carryover into everyday life.

Transformation

Our therapists partner with nature and use nature play to support skill-building, which facilitates meaningful progress towards goals.

Great Outdoors

The benefits of being outdoors are vast. Nature promotes exploration, adventure, healthy risk-taking, creativity, movement, and mood, among other things.

Child walking on a mossy fallen tree trunk in a forest with brown leaves on the ground.

Taproot’s programming utilizes a neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic approach, a strengths-based approach that focuses on:

  • Empowerment

  • Individual Autonomy

  • Validating diverse communication

  • Creating inclusive environments through environmental adaptation

The participant’s interests and natural curiosities help guide sessions, which enhances:

  • Motivation

  • Trust

  • Engagement

  • Confidence

Neurodiversity-Affirming