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Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological study was to gain a deep understanding of the shared experiences of ecotherapists who provide therapy in nature. Based on the information gathered and answers to the research questions, eight participants' shared beliefs about ecotherapy emerged from the research. The primary research question for this study was, what are the shared experiences of therapists who provide nature-based psychotherapy? A review of the ecopsychology literature provided benefits to spending time in nature, descriptions of various types of nature-based therapy, and ethical and legal issues that affect ecotherapists. Semistructured interviews composed of open-ended questions were used to collect data by phone and through the use of video conferencing software. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed for key words, descriptive terms, and themes. Additional materials provided by therapists were analyzed for themes and overarching themes. A cross-case analysis resulted in seven superordinate themes. The research question yielded the shared beliefs of therapists in more detail than the shared experiences of therapists, and these beliefs were addressed by the superordinate themes. The subquestions were also addressed by the superordinate themes. The superordinate themes were as follows: (1) Major Tenets, (2) Training and Ethical Concerns, (3) Benefits, (4) Motivations for Using Nature, (5) Beliefs about Human Connection with Nature, (6) Therapist's Role, and (7) Spirituality. Validation procedures were employed throughout to ensure accuracy of data interpretation, which included clarification of researcher biases, member checking, peer debriefing and peer review, and the use of “thick, rich description.” Implications for therapists and therapist educators are presented, with recommendations for further research. Personal reflections of the first author were provided. Key Words: Ecopsychology—Ecotherapy—Biophilia—Nature-based therapy—Psychotherapy.

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An Examination of the Shared Beliefs of Ecotherapists

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