The Experiences of Counselors-in-Training in A Semester-Long Ecotherapy Course: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

A growing body of research examines the impact of the natural world on mental health and well-being. The purpose of this study was to analyze experiences of counselors-in-training (CITs) in a semester-long ecotherapy course. CITs were exposed to theoretical constructs and interventions used to conceptualize clients and conduct therapy within an ecotherapy framework. Consensual qualitative research approach was used to explore how CITs understand and make meaning of the course content, as well as how participants integrated the concepts of ecotherapy into their counselor identity and clinical experiences. Results of the data analyzed produced the following domains: benefits, intent to take the class, class experiences, impact of the pandemic, class cohesion, and relationship to the natural world. Intrapersonal benefits and the effects of nature were two of the most prevalent themes detected.

KEYWORDS:

• Counselor education
• ecotherapy
• counselors-in-training
• counselor development
• ecopsychology
• creativity in counseling

Acknowldgement

We would like to acknowledge Molly Malkinski and Emmi McCauley for their help with this manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Urban Coast Institute at Monmouth University