Readings and Discussion Post: Ecopsychology Theory and Therapy

Chalquist, C. (2009); see recommend readings on Ecopsychology,

Pope and Wedding, pp 570 – 600

Discussion Post:

What is Eco-psychology and what is involved in the practice of Eco-therapy

HERE IS THE RESPOND TO THE MAIN POST

Kian

We have finally made it to the end of semester. Congrats! We are ending our module with a discussion about eco-psychology and how it is involved with therapy today. This was a new topic for me to divulge in as I have not been exposed to this type of psychology before.

Eco-therapy consist of mutual healing and growth as it pertains to relationships in the natural world (Chalquist, 2009). In other words, it is a deep connection with the earth and the environment that surrounds you. The environment and the connection that an individual has with it can greatly affect the psychological, social, and physical well-being. The premise behind this unconventional method is that it promotes an emotional connection between humans and the world. It also aids in encouraging sustainability.

Types of Therapy

Since there is a disconnection from the natural world, a intrapsychic or intra-familial can cause psychosomatic symptoms (Chalquist, 2009). The benefit of eco-therapy is it relies heavily on a nature-based approach to healing. After all, everyone is surrounding with the world and can become interconnected with it. One method of therapy that had completely fascinated me was how horticulture therapy (HT) can assist with managing stress and obesity. Reconnecting with the world allows an individual to alleviate symptoms that is caused outside of the unnatural world (Chalquist, 2009). These symptoms can bring a larger capacity for health such as joy or social connection. Taking a walks or gardening can help improve psychological symptoms. In fact, gardening can be become cathartic for individuals who feel a sense of isolation. This is a great way to lessen those effects especially in an elderly population.

Another type of treatment modality that aids in reconnection with the world are animal assisted therapy. This type of therapy aids in rehabilitation, recovery, and healing in clients with different diseases (acute or chronic). Since animals provide a calm sensation, this will distract the attention from the distressing situation and move toward providing a comforting and pleasurable feeling.  Like horticulture therapy, animal-assisted therapy has been positively effective with the elderly as well. According to Chalquist (2009), Alzheimers patients who were aggressive, and hostile had a decrease in these negative traits when a dog came visiting them.

This emerging field of eco-psychology and eco-therapy has benefits to the individuals that incorporates a connectedness and oneness with nature. This holistic view in psychotherapy will help foster mood improvement and an overall positive mental well-being.

Reference

Chalquist, C. (2009). A look at the ecotherapy research evidence. Ecopsychology, 1(2), 64-74. https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2009.0003