forest therapy nature connection personal growth

Health Rangers are multidisciplinary professionals with a combination of medical, outdoor recreation, nature connection and mindfulness skills.  In addition to prescribing nature to clients, Eric integrates nature into his services with clients whether it's during psychotherapy, facilitating meetings, or coordinating events and workshops.  He even maintains a mobile office that allows him to work with clients on the doorstep of some of the twin ports most nature-rich settings.  

Eric is a MN, WI, MA & NY-licensed psychotherapist and nationally Certified Forest Therapy Guide since 2016 specializing in individual, couples and family therapy, and maintains an in-person private practice in the twin ports area and telehealth practices in MA & NY..  Eric’s mission is to explore natural alternatives to medicine by reconnecting play, people and places.

With over 15 years experience as a child, couples and family therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Colorado Denver specializing in clinical and school counseling, he is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. 

Eric's undergraduate studies in Natural Resources at Cornell University helps him present at conferences and to general audiences speaking on the topics of positive psychology, nature deficit disorder and the latest nature therapy research and techniques.  His experience in college and professional sports informs his understanding of the unique psychological challenges of recreational, committed and elite athletes.   

Eric is an experiential, present-centered therapist.  His therapeutic approach is to provide honest and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. He integrates complementary methodologies and techniques which even includes animal-assisted and psychedelic-assisted therapies to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, he works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

As a husband and father, he enjoys leading his family on many outdoor adventures and in being healthier, happier and smarter. Eric volunteers as a ski/bike patroller at Spirit Mountain and as a coach for the Duluth Devos

Shadow is a 4yr old male Siberian Husky who’s grown up in the practice since he was a puppy.  He’s the official greeter and inspiration on how best to connect with nature.  

He prefers to talk only when necessary and will listen to our hearts intently.