About
Our Story
The idea for Green Mind Psychiatry originated in Tucson while Dr. Wes Tate was completing his psychiatry training at the University of Arizona. He observed that the Sonoran Desert played a significant role in the healing process for many clients, complementing medications. During his two decades of practice in Colorado, Dr. Tate recognized the beneficial effects of nature on his patients' mental health. By joining the Community Engagement, Design and Research Center at the University of Colorado, he worked to improve access to green spaces for at-risk families in Boulder. This experience reinforced his belief in nature's remarkable benefits, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many people found comfort outdoors. Motivated by these insights, Dr. Tate began recommending time in nature as an alternative to medication for many clients and developed a group therapy program that integrates traditional therapeutic methods with the restorative power of nature, leading to the creation of Green Mind Psychiatry, where he supports clients in their healing journeys through nature.
In today's tech-driven world, the therapeutic benefits of nature are often overlooked. Research demonstrates that spending time in nature improves mental strength, alleviating symptoms of mental illness and fostering positive states like calm, clarity, confidence, and connection. These elements form the "Green Mind," a mindset nurtured through nature experiences.
Mission
Moving Beyond Mental Health to Mental Strength
Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and habits to enhance mental fitness and improve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. We recognize that true mental strength involves more than just managing symptoms. We're committed to supporting you on your journey to better mental health, promoting a more joyful and fulfilling life.
At Green Mind Psychiatry, we help clients develop mental strength by effectively managing stress and boosting emotional resilience through mindfulness practices and lifestyle changes. Our approach is designed to enhance focus, reduce anxiety, and lessen irritability and depression, allowing you to feel more energized and content.
Our Founder
Meet our psychiatrist, the heart of Green Mind Psychiatry, dedicated to promoting holistic healing and sharing nature-inspired strategies to enhance mental fitness.
Dr. Wes Tate
Psychiatrist
Dr. Wes Tate is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience in holistic psychiatry, combining medication management with integrative treatments to help clients of all ages overcome mental health challenges and live fulfilling lives. Throughout his career, he has held various roles, treating a diverse range of patients. He served as the Medical Director of the Tennyson Center for Children in Denver for 5 years, worked with students at the University of Colorado Boulder, and provided care for hospitalized youth and adults in Louisville, Boulder, and Aurora. Currently, he is the Medical Director of The Trauma Foundation in Seattle and Co-Director of The Learning Network of the Nature and Health Alliance.
Advantages
Discover how nature improves psychological skills and promotes mental fitness often surpassing the benefits of conventional treatments.
Reduced Stress
Nature offers a calming atmosphere that alleviates clients' anxiety more effectively than a clinic setting. This environment allows them to relax and engage with providers in a more genuine manner, free from the stigma of being labeled as a patient.
Heightened Senses
Nature captivates our senses—sights, sounds, scents, and textures—fostering mindfulness and awareness of the present moment, which are essential for emotional processing.
Positive Emotions
Green spaces revitalize us, promoting positive feelings and reducing anxiety. Spending time in nature boosts happiness by triggering the release of endorphins and serotonin.
