Our brand-new Outdoor Therapeutic Space is officially open, marking a significant milestone in community-based mental health care. The Brookline Center is the first local community mental health center to build a designated outdoor space for mental health services
This beautiful outdoor space is an ADA-compliant accessible therapeutic environment that enriches the Center experience for clients, families, and staff. Featuring gardens, adult and family therapy areas, a children’s nook, and a play court, the space is used to provide clinical treatment, including individual and group therapy for children and youth.
Current Center clients that are interested in using the space should talk to their providers; new and former clients to the Center should call our Intake Team at 617-860-2084.
The Outdoor Therapeutic Space was guided by science-backed approaches and will provide numerous benefits for clients’ physical, psychological, and social wellbeing
Key Benefits:
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Nature's Calming Effect
Spending time in a therapeutic garden surrounded by natural elements such as plants, flowers, and water features can help reduce stress levels. The garden’s cheerful ambiance and sensory stimulation will uplift mood and promote overall emotional well-being.
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Decreased Anxiety and Depression Symptoms
Exposure to nature in a therapeutic garden will help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression for both children and adults.
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Sense of Control and Personal Agency
Involving patients in therapeutic outdoor activities empowers and fosters a sense of control. Engaging with others in the space cultivates feelings of belonging and connectedness in children. Play therapy is an essential tool in treating children and contributes to improved mental health outcomes.
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Patient-Centered Care
Creating an Outdoor Therapeutic Space aligns with patient-centered care principles by prioritizing patients’ needs and preferences.
Designed by studioMLA Architects and constructed by Bauman Remodeling, this project was made possible through the generous support of the Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation.
Read about the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new space in the press release below.