The Experiences of Clients in Ecotherapy: A Qualitative Study

Emerging research has considered the role of nature in therapy; however, limited sources exist that study how clients perceive their experience with ecotherapy. Ecotherapy is often referred to as applied ecopsychology, and ecotherapists utilize various techniques and interventions, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship of humans and nature. This study was designed using qualitative inquiry through a consensual qualitative research approach to explore how clients make meaning of their therapy experience in ecotherapy, or therapy with nature. Themes that emerged include the client's relationship with the natural world, the impact of ecotherapy on the clients' well-being, ecotherapy as a modality, and considerations for ecotherapy/ethical practices with nature. Implications and further research are discussed.