Description:
Research shows that time spent in nature significantly reduces symptoms of stress, depression, and ADHD, making ecotherapy a valuable addition to any therapeutic practice. This interactive workshop introduces therapists to the principles and practices of ecotherapy, a therapeutic approach that taps into the healing power of nature. Participants will explore how ecotherapy can be integrated into clinical practice by drawing from key resources like Ecotherapy: Healing with Nature in Mind by Linda Buzzell and Craig Chalquist, and Coming Back to Life by Joanna Macy and Molly Brown. The workshop will begin with a grounding exercise and include a land acknowledgment to honor Indigenous wisdom and the lands we occupy. Participants will also reflect on the natural environments they grew up with, exploring how these connections shape our relationships with nature today.
The workshop will cover important topics such as the core concepts of ecotherapy, ethical and cultural considerations, and how to assess clients for readiness for nature-based interventions. Therapists will learn several ecotherapy interventions that can be applied in various settings, from urban offices to natural environments. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with both a theoretical understanding and practical tools to begin integrating nature-inspired therapy into their work.
Objectives:
1. Understand the Core Concepts of Ecotherapy
Participants will be able to define ecotherapy and explain how nature can be used as a therapeutic tool to improve mental health outcomes.
2. Explore Ethical and Cultural Considerations
Participants will learn how to conduct land acknowledgments and explore the ethical and cultural implications of incorporating nature into therapeutic practice
3. Learn and Apply Three Ecotherapy Interventions
Participants will gain practical knowledge of at least three ecotherapy interventions and understand how to adapt them to various therapeutic settings.
4. Assess Client Suitability for Ecotherapy
Participants will develop skills in assessing a client’s readiness for nature-based therapy.
Trainer Bio:
Madelyn Steen, MS, LMFT
Madelyn Steen graduated from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a Bachelor’s of Psychology and English. Then she completed her Masters in Science, Counseling with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University-Long Beach. She is trained in EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, and Ecotherapy.
Madelyn is originally from Minnesota, but has lived in California, and has spent time traveling all over the world. Madelyn is a queer therapist and active in social justice issues, as she believes therapy extends beyond the therapy room and into systems surrounding us.
