In this episode, William Henry and Lali Herrera explore the profound connection between nature, mental health, and personal growth during the summer solstice. They discuss practical ways to align with seasonal rhythms, the importance of unstructured play, and how to harness the energy of the longest day of the year for self-expansion. Guest Information Guest Name: Citlali "Lali" Herrera, LCSWBio: Citlali Herrera is a licensed psychotherapist and founder of Inner Worlds Psychotherapy, a private practice based in Westchester, NY, serving clients across New York and New Jersey. Her work is rooted in a simple belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to be seen and to live a fully authentic life. In her practice, she primarily works with adult daughters of emotionally immature parents—people-pleasers, perfectionists, and hyper-independent women—helping them reconnect with their bodies, boundaries, and needs through nature-based healing. She integrates ecotherapy, somatic and psychodynamic approaches, hypnotherapy, psychedelic integration, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, helping clients reconnect not just with themselves, but with nature as a regulating, remembering force. Her work invites healing that is relational, embodied, and deeply rooted in the natural world. Links: Autumn Equinox Hypnosis Event (Sept 22): innerworldspsychotherapy.com Website: https://www.innerworldspsychotherapy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innerworldspsychotherapy/ Key Topics: Seasonal rhythms and their impact on mental healthThe significance of the summer solstice as a time for visibility and expansionThe importance of unstructured play for children and adultsPractices for connecting with nature, such as earthing and gardeningUsing the elements of fire and wind as metaphors for personal empowerment and reflectionThe role of discomfort and pushing edges for growthShedding and letting go during the fall equinox as a metaphor for personal transformation Takeaways: The summer solstice is a time for visibility and expanding into your true self.Connecting with nature through gardening, earthing, and outdoor activities enhances wellbeing.Being present with the elements, like wind and fire, can serve as powerful metaphors and tools for growth.Unstructured play is essential for creativity, problem-solving, and emotional resilience.Pushing comfort zones and embracing discomfort are vital for personal expansion.Shedding limiting beliefs and behaviors prepares us for new growth during seasonal transitions. Host & Show Info Host Name: William Henry, LCSWAbout the Host: William Henry is a licensed clinical social worker and certified nature informed therapist. After graduating from New York University, he spent seven dedicated years in a day treatment center and school where he worked closely with students and families facing significant mental health challenges. Certified in Nature Informed Therapy in 2022, he believes that rebuilding our connection with nature can provide some much needed relief from the struggles that many of us are facing. Will spends his free time fly fishing, camping and hiking. Find more resources and information through his practice, Riverstone Mental Health Collective, based in Mount Kisco, NY.Website: riverstonementalhealth.com Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. The Nature of Mental Health Follow us on social media:Instagram: @riverstonementalhealthFacebook: Riverstone Mental HealthLinkedIn: William Henry, LCSWYouTube: @TheNatureofMentalHealth Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway in the comments. We would love to hear from you! ⚠️ Important Disclaimer: The Nature of Mental Health is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. The information presented here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care professional. If you’re in crisis, thinking about harming yourself, or don’t feel safe, call 911, or contact your local emergency number or crisis hotline immediately.
