Nature-Based Therapy Beyond Traditional Settings

Helping children build communication, confidence, and connection through personalized outdoor therapy experiences in nature.

About Nicole

Meet The Heart Behind Nature Connections

Nicole M. Yates, M.S., CCC-SLP has over 20 years of experience helping children communicate and thrive. As a PROMPT Certified Speech-Language Pathologist and expert in AAC, childhood apraxia of speech, and motor speech disorders, Nicole brings specialized knowledge and compassionate care to every child.

Nature Connections was created as a sister company to Bayside Therapy Specialists, inspired by Nicole’s experience seeing children become more engaged, regulated, and communicative when therapy moved outdoors.

By combining evidence-based therapy with the healing power of nature, movement, and play, Nature Connections offers children a unique environment to grow and connect.

Our Mission

To help children thrive through nature-based therapy, meaningful play, communication, and connection.

Our vision

To transform therapy by creating natural environments where children connect, communicate, and grow.

What we do

Supporting Growth Through Nature-Based Therapy

Speech Therapy

Outdoor, one-on-one speech therapy combining nature, play, and evidence-based techniques including PROMPT tactile cueing to build speech, language, and confidence.

Late Talkers

Helping young children develop communication through child-led play, movement, nature exploration, and family coaching.

Intensive Speech Therapy

Accelerated therapy using evidence-based approaches, including PROMPT and DTTC, for childhood apraxia of speech and motor speech challenges.

Occupational Therapy and OT Groups (coming soon)

Nature-based occupational therapy supporting sensory regulation, motor skills, confidence, independence, and social connection through outdoor play.

Why Choose Us

Why Choose Nature Connections

Experience compassionate, specialized therapy that combines clinical expertise with the benefits of nature, movement, and meaningful connection.

Expert Care

Over 20 years of experience providing specialized pediatric speech and communication support.

Nature Approach

Therapy sessions designed outdoors to encourage engagement, confidence, and natural learning.

Personalized Support

Individualized strategies created around each child’s unique needs, strengths, and goals.

Family Focused

Partnering with families through coaching, guidance, and ongoing support.

Approved Scholarship Provider

Nature Connections is proud to be an approved Step Up For Students direct provider, helping eligible families access therapy services through available scholarship funding.

Testimonials

What Families Are Saying

“Nicole introduced our daughter to AAC, and the moment she told me, ‘Mama, I love you,’ my heart melted. She is now communicating with her device and beginning to verbalize. Nicole’s patience, expertise, and individualized approach have been life-changing for our family.”

Wendy

“Nicole has been instrumental in helping my daughter “find her voice.” She started with only a small handful of words and approximations and very severe apraxia. Now she is talking! While she still has a long way to go, I feel confident Nicole will continue to be an important force in her life until she gets there.”

Jenni

“Nicole’s expertise, kindness, and personalized approach have made a wonderful impact on our child’s confidence, communication skills, and overall development.”

Emily

Get in touch

Start Your Child’s Therapy Journey

Connect with Nature Connections to explore personalized outdoor therapy options designed to support your child’s communication, confidence, and development.