Root Cause Nature Therapy

Root Cause Homepage

OUR STORY

Root Cause is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit that was founded in 2026 by Jessica Propst, a recovering alcoholic with long-term sobriety.  Our mission is to provide a space for connection with ourselves, others and the natural world that promotes physical and emotional well-being for all, especially those challenged by addiction and mental health. We serve individuals in the counties of Rockingham, Botetourt, Augusta, Rockbridge, Alleghany, and surrounding areas of Virginia. 

We are dedicated to using lesser-known properties of the natural world around us for healing and deeper self-discovery. We accept minimum donations for our services, which then provide experiences for individuals involved in inpatient/outpatient substance abuse & mental health programs. 

About the Founder, Executive Director, and Program Sylvotherapist

With a vision for building something meaningful, Jess brings a blend of big-picture thinking and personal experience. As a recovering alcoholic herself, Jess deeply understands the challenges that come with getting and staying sober, as well as maintaining mental health along the way. She is a huge proponent of addressing the “root cause” behind substance abuse and mental health issues, and has a passion for helping others like herself throughout their healing journeys. She credits her expansive time spent in nature to her ability to practice mindfulness, meditation, and truly unplug from the pressures of today’s society. She recognizes that the most solid way to stay strong in her sobriety is by sharing her experience, strength and hope with others and centers her mission around that knowledge. 

Jessica has a BS in Kinesiology from James Madison University with a Minor in coaching. She is also a CMA, ICAHP & IPHM Certified Sylvotherapy Practicioner. She has been sober since 2022 and participates in community 12-step programs and community mental health support groups. She was born and raised in Rockingham County. She is an avid trail runner, hiker, and self-proclaimed mushroom enthusiast. She most enjoys spending time in nature, hiking, camping, or fishing with her two children Easton and Karson, and her partner Wes. 

What exactly is Nature Therapy (Sylvotherapy)?

Inspired by Shinrin-Yoku, the Japanese practice of forest bathing, join us as we immerse ourselves in nature in a way that invites healing for the body and mind, our fraught ecosystems, and our community.

We’ll quiet our minds, awaken our senses, and restore our relationship with ourselves, each other and the earth with a mini retreat (2-4 hours long) to appreciate the healing benefits of nature. The forest is the therapist. Your certified forest therapy guide opens the door. A series of thoughtfully crafted activities invite participants to experience nature in a new way. It all culminates with a tea ceremony in which your guide will serve snacks and a wildcrafted infusion of local plants. Upon departure, we’ll have an enhanced appreciation for the natural world, and a new practice that we can readily apply in our daily lives. Book a session on our website Booking Page

You can learn more about Sylvotherapy and the physical and psychological benefits of nature on our Resources page here: More about Sylvotherapy 

Our Services

PARTNERSHIPS WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAMS, MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS AND 12-STEP PROGRAMS:
Are you involved in a program that focuses on addiction or mental health? Seeking to amplify and diversify your clients’ activities to include forest bathing, nature therapy, or mindfulness? Root Cause will enhance your program with a heart-centered, relational experience through the forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We can also discuss the possibility of visiting your site, here in Virginia, or Nationwide. Email Rootcause@rootcausenaturetherapy.org for a free consultation on how we can work together to create a custom experience to complement your treatment plans.

MINDFULNESS IN NATURE

Looking for something more physical than forest bathing but equally magical? Join us for a mindful hike featuring easy, moderate or advanced trails throughout Virginia. Every hike is customized based upon your unique needs, the season, desired views (waterfall, mountain-top vista or riverside swimming holes), and fitness level. We have an abundance of trails to suit every body.
We believe there is a time to DO and a time to DO NOTHING. Together, we will explore and move, while also making time for silence and stillness. Are you hiking for healing? In need of an experienced guide to help you make the most of your time in the mountains? We've got you covered.

Root Cause can integrate mindfulness into a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking trips, bringing you into the present moment with a dose of wonder and awe. We'll help you experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Email Rootcause@rootcausenaturetherapy.org to create your custom experience, or book at Root Cause Booking Page