Experience the healing power of connecting with animals and nature.
Unlock new progress by booking a guided therapeutic experience on our working farm on Bainbridge Island. Customized sessions are available for adults, teens, and kids.
Wander. Talk. Discover.
There are many ways to discover the farm…
Learning to set boundaries
Managing stress
Building confidence
Grief and loss
Life transitions (career change, new relationships)
Relationship challenges
Finding someone to talk to in a safe, non-judgmental space
Neurodiversity
Are you or a loved one struggling with…
Therapeutic farm visits offer a fresh approach to your healing journey.
There are three ways for you to experience the farm!
Introductory Farm Tours
Meet Michele & the animals and explore what a therapeutic farm session is like. This is the perfect opportunity to see if this is right for you.
Farm Day Workshops & Retreats
Share a day of self-care with others. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and build community!
Individual Therapeutic Sessions
This is where the healing begins! Together, we dive deep, set realistic goals and work patiently towards them in customized, guided sessions.
Hi There!
Growing up along the bayous of south Louisiana, the outdoors always brought comfort to my sensory-seeking soul. When my husband and I moved to the PNW in 2005, it was easy to fall in love with this place, and I instantly felt rooted and at home.
In 2012, we purchased 2.5 acres here on Bainbridge Island and began transforming it to the farm you see today. The creation of this space, this therapeutic farm, is enveloped with my diverse professional experience and my desire to share the power of animal-assisted interventions and nature-bsed experiences with others.
All of this has led me here on this beautiful path of working with both neurotypical and neurodiverse adults, teens, and kids who are longing for connection with another adult, animals, and nature.
Whether you’re here for yourself or your child, I’m glad you are here.
I care about you and understand your desire to move forward in your life. If you’re feeling stuck, I got you!
We start by wandering the farm and exploring simple things - maybe pet some goats, hug a dog, plant tomatoes, or just sit by the pond, soak up the sun - and we talk. The goal is for you to discover a new way to heal and feel whole again.
With warmth & gratitude,
Work with an Experienced Professional
EDUCATION
Certified in the Human-Animal Bond (animal-assisted interventions) from the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work
Holds a Master's Degree in Teaching
Trauma-informed educator and facilitator
Washington State teaching certificate
Former classroom teacher at Ordway Elementary (grades 2-4)
WSU Extension horticulture certificate
Ecopsychology certificate
Community Development volunteer with the U. S. Peace Corps, focusing on community outreach, organization, and education
PROFESSIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
Worked with neurodiverse community members of the Developmental Disabilities Administration through a contract with the Department of Social and Health Services
Helping women impacted by trauma with a local non-profit, Give to Heal
Please note that I am not a licensed mental health professional. Search for a local therapists through the Bainbridge Island Psychotherapy Guild.
A Proven Therapeutic Method - It works!
We all know the benefits of being in nature and connecting with animals, but now there is evidence-based research around the healing powers of animal-assisted interventions (known as AAIs) and nature-based activities.
Communication development
Increased self-awareness
Emotional regulation
Leadership development
Increased confidence
Being present
Assertiveness
Improve focus and attention
Building trust
Empathy
To learn more, check out these organization studying the benefits of AAIs:
What Clients are Saying
“I was in need of a break - not just physically, but mentally, as well. I needed something that would allow my mind some space to not only gather my thoughts but to be in the moment. What better way to do that than spending time with 5 of the sweetest goats ever!.”
“From the first moment I walked onto the property, I couldn’t help feeling immediately that this is exactly where I was supposed to be. Every worry and negative thought was left at the gate and I focused on the sounds and scents of nature around me.”
“The term “self-care” gets thrown around quite a bit, and I did not put much stock into it until I almost had no choice. Michele at TWN provided me the opportunity to understand the value of self-care and mindfulness.”
Here’s how to schedule your first experience on the farm…
Everyone’s journey begins with an Introductory Farm Tour.
Step 1
A simple questionnaire where you tell me more about what you’re looking for. Takes about 3-minutes.
Complete the Online Contact Form
Step 2
A 20-minute call to learn more about each other and make sure our services are a good fit for your needs. We also discuss your goals and create a customized plan for your first guided experience.
Schedule a Free Phone Consultation
Step 3
Here’s where we meet each other and you experience what a therapeutic session looks like.
Introductory Farm Tour
Step 4
This is where your sessions start and where you begin to breathe again, discover how amazing you are, and transform your healing journey.
Transform Your Healing Journey
Rent the Space
TWN has a serene and private outdoor setting that would be perfect for your next meeting, workshop, or client session.
There are various seating areas for scenery changes and multiple covered spaces.
Outdoor access only; bathroom available
$60/hour for individual or small groups (maximum 4 people)
$100/hour for large groups (maximum 10 people)
Please note this option does not include access to the resident animals or garden. Reach out to Michele for additional pricing info.
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