Nature-Based Pediatric Occupational Therapy in Seacoast New Hampshire

When everyday moments feel challenging, having support can make a meaningful difference.

Play-based, nature-informed occupational therapy that supports regulation, confidence, and participation in everyday life.

A whole-child approach

Children thrive when therapy feels meaningful, engaging, and aligned with how they naturally learn and grow.

I work with children and families to better understand their child's unique strengths, challenges, and needs—helping them move toward greater balance, confidence, and participation in everyday life.

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A young girl sitting in a field of white daisies during sunset, with trees in the background and sunlight creating a warm glow.

Why nature?

Nature is a uniquely therapeutic environment. Its ever-changing, sensory-rich environment naturally supports and organizes the nervous system while inviting movement, exploration, creativity, problem-solving, and connection.

As children play, climb, create, and explore, they strengthen regulation, sensory processing, attention, motor development, and confidence in ways that are meaningful, engaging, and naturally woven into play.

Child exploring a nature fort through imaginative outdoor play.

In the moment

Most sessions take place outdoors, where nature becomes an active part of the therapeutic process.

When it best supports your child's goals, sessions may also take place at home, at school, or in the community—helping children build skills that naturally carry over into everyday life.

Ways we can work together

  • A line drawing of a young boy with an open mouth, arms outstretched, standing on a tractor pulling a wagon with a wooden barrel, a small tree, and a shovel nearby, on a farm with grass and plants.

    Individual Occupational Therapy

  • Line art illustration of a campfire with several sticks arranged in a teepee shape over flames, surrounded by small logs and rocks.

    Nature Play Groups

  • Line drawing of a young woman and young man sitting on the ground, engaging in conversation. The woman has long hair and is holding a cup, while the man has short hair and is holding a smaller object.

    Caregiver Coaching

  • Outline of children sitting on floor and drawing with chalk, near a table with a potted plant and a weather icon calendar.

    School Collaboration

  • Professional & Community Education

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Meet Gayle

Gayle Vardakis, MS, OTR/L, nature-based pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Empowering Roots Occupational Therapy.

I'm a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Empowering Roots Occupational Therapy, a nature-based pediatric OT practice based in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire.

When you reach out to Empowering Roots, you'll work directly with me—from your initial consultation through every step of your child's care.

With nearly two decades of experience as an occupational therapist, I've had the privilege of working in a variety of settings with individuals and families across the lifespan.

Working with children in nature broadened my understanding of the meaningful role the natural world can play in children's development, regulation, and participation in everyday life. That experience ultimately inspired me to create Empowering Roots.

I'd love the opportunity to get to know your family and support your child.

Learn more about gayle

“Gayle is a gem of a person, and any family would be lucky to have her in their corner. I'd highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone with genuine expertise, compassion, and heart when it comes to supporting children.”

— PARENT

Getting started

1

Connect.

Schedule a free consultation to get to know one another, answer your questions, and learn a little about what's bringing you here.

2

Personalized suggestions.

Together, we'll determine the best next step for your family. I’ll answer questions and share what type of OT offering may meet your needs and preferences.

3

Begin working together.

From there, we'll begin working together in the way that best supports your child's goals, participation, confidence, and growth.

Let’s take the first step together.

Schedule a free consultation