Look no further - nature and pediatric therapy have merged.
A nature-based therapeutic space for you and your child to learn new strategies, have fun, connect, and grow.
Does this sound like your child?
Meltdowns, Frustration, & Agression
They never stop moving or talking.
The only calm time is screen time
Clumsiness and Limited overall strength
As a parent, you might be feeling this way:
Exhausted
All-nighters, picky eating, aggression, sibling rivalry, constant attention-seeking; we've seen it all and we're here to help.
Overwhelmed
New diagnoses, behaviors, school readiness, or a home that is less peaceful than you desire.
Wishful
You want your child to make friends, be confident, get dressed, tie their shoes, enjoy life and the list goes on and on - As it should!
Concerned
Is your child receiving the care they need and deserve? Are you learning ways to carry over strategies learned in therapy?
What Sets Us Apart?
We partner with nature to support growth, resilience, skills, and mental health. Nature's challenges nurture body and soul
We bring nature-based experiences to a local park or your own backyard—whatever suits your family best.
We integrate evidence-based research with child-led play to create meaningful, individualized therapy.
We might be the missing piece to your child's growth. Nature and therapy, together. Give us a try.
Services
Here's How:
Individual Occupational Therapy
Starting with a dual-practitioner evaluation, we will utilize evidence-based, standardized assessments, parent and caregiver interviews, medical record review, and of course, PLAY! We'll collaborate with you to develop a plan of care and goals that take into account your child's strengths, interests, and family values. You can expect progress notes and effective home programming.
Group Occupational Therapy
We love a good peer play group! These groups will help your child hone social skills, develop empathy, overcome challenges, and make new friends! We select peer groups based on similar goals, ages, and skill levels.
Enrichment 1:1 and Groups
Enrichment courses are available for those who want to try us out without the occupational therapy evaluation, plan of care, and individualized goals. We'll work on social skills, self-regulation, and other life skills with and without peers.
Parent and Caregiver Resources and Support
We will provide an individualized home program to support your child in goals that are meaningful to them in their roles as family member, student, friend, and child. We value open communication, honesty, and hard work and we'll build momentum with you while we watch your child grow. We will support you through the challenges and the wins with evidence-backed research. Let us bring peace back into your home.
Who's your therapist...
Hi, I'm Cathy Priester — Founder of Sycamore Pediatric Therapy
I started Sycamore Pediatric Therapy because I remember what it was like to spend most of the day outside—climbing trees, running barefoot in the rain, making mud-and-acorn "recipes." Maybe you remember those kinds of days, too.
I’m a licensed and experienced occupational therapy practitioner with over 3 years of pediatric OT experience and more than 10 years working with the autistic community. My journey began with a B.S. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from NC State University and grew through years of service with AmeriCorps NCCC and Outward Bound.
Sycamore Pediatric Therapy is named after my lifelong love of Sycamore Flats in Pisgah National Forest—a place that shaped my belief in the power of nature to heal, teach, and inspire.
So, Why Sycamore?
You might be wondering how to make your home a more peaceful place. Or how to help your child navigate picky eating, big feelings, or social challenges. Whether your child is working through autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or struggles with self-regulation, Sycamore is here to help.
Our therapy supports resilience, courage, and curiosity—often nurtured through the natural world. I’ve faced some of these challenges myself as a child, and now, I aim to be the therapist I wish I'd had.
Our 3 Pillars of Care
Collaboration
By partnering with families, caregivers, teachers, and other support professionals, we develop individualized, holistic plans of care that align with each child’s unique strengths.
Nature as Partner
Evidence-based practices in an outdoor setting to support your child’s growth and help them reach their full potential.
Holistic Support
Our goal is to support you and your child in all areas of your life. We strive to see progress during sessions, at home/school, and in the community.
FAQs
How do I know if I need occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy can benefit children who struggle with:
Managing emotions
Calming down after getting upset
Over- or under-reaction to sounds, touch, movement
Seeking out intense sensory experiences
Daily tasks like dressing or using utensils
Handwriting
Avoids or has trouble joining play with other kids or learning new activities
Daily routines in school
Difficult transitions
What can I expect during my first visit?
During your first visit, your child will receive a dual-practitioner occupational therapy evalution. Our therapists will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand your child's needs and goals. This includes discussing medical history, current challenges, and utilizing evidence-based methods to develop an appropriate plan of care. Based on this assessment, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your family. This evaluation will take place either in your home or in the outdoors, whichever is convenient for you.
For enrichment services only, no evaluation required! Just show up and have fun.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
Yes, to utilize insurance, a referral is needed.
If you opt not to use insurance, we can be more flexible with the plan of care, duration, and frequency of the sessions.The number of sessions needed varies from child to child and depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of diagnoses, overall health, and treatment goals. During the initial evaluation, our therapist will assess your child and provide you with a personalized treatment plan. Our goal is to provide you and your child with the most efficient and effective care to help you achieve long-lasting results. Your child's progress will be continually monitored and adjusted as needed throughout their treatment plan.
How does nature-based therapy work?
We are proud to utilize the beautiful natural landscapes of Western North Carolina to support your child in achieving their goals. In all weather conditions—rain or shine—we embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, helping children build self-esteem, resilience, and empathy through meaningful connection with nature. Our sessions are thoughtfully designed to integrate therapeutic goals into engaging outdoor play, allowing children to learn and grow in a setting that feels natural and enjoyable. During the colder months, we offer both in-home and outdoor sessions, based on your preference. However, we’ll always encourage your child to embrace the season, bundle up, and enjoy the benefits of outdoor play in their yard or a nearby green space.
What are the benefits of nature-based therapy?
While traditional clinic settings offer valuable support, nature-based therapy provides a distinctive and enriching alternative. Our outdoor environment fosters a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, helping therapy feel more approachable and less clinical. Immersed in nature, children are naturally motivated to explore, move, create, and play—promoting growth, resilience, and skill development in a joyful, dynamic setting.
Do you accept insurance?
We are currently undergoing the credentialing process with a variety of insurance providers. To stay informed about which plans we will be accepting and when coverage becomes available, we invite you to sign up for our newsletter. If you’d like assistance determining your eligibility or potential out-of-pocket costs, please don’t hesitate to contact us with your insurance information. We’re happy to help you navigate the process.
How can I prepare for nature-based therapy or enrichment sessions?
Dress your child in layers
Bring water
If you use it, apply sunscreen and/or bug spray
How do you ensure the quality and safety of your services?
Our licensed and experienced therapists adhere to the highest standards of care. We regularly update our practices based on the latest research and guidelines in occupational therapy. Additionally, we follow strict hygiene and safety protocols to protect our clients and staff.
If you have any other questions or need further information, please feel free to contact us. We're here to help you every step of the way!
Get In Touch
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:
All information on this website is intended for instruction and informational purposes only. The authors are not responsible for any harm or injury that may result. Significant injury risk is possible if you do not follow due diligence and seek suitable professional advice about your injury.
No guarantees of specific results are expressly made or implied on this website.
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