Understanding Ecotherapy: Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Help

Understanding Ecotherapy

Ecotherapy is a nature-based approach to mental health that supports healing and emotional growth through outdoor and environmental activities. It aims to strengthen your connection with the natural world to enhance psychological wellbeing.

What is Ecotherapy?

Ecotherapy refers to a variety of therapeutic practices that involve being in, working with, or observing nature. Techniques might include:

Nature walks or forest bathing

Horticultural therapy (gardening)

Wilderness therapy or outdoor counselling

Animal-assisted therapy in natural settings

Environmental conservation work

It’s often used alongside conventional therapy to promote calm, clarity, and emotional balance.

What to Expect from Ecotherapy

Your ecotherapy session will vary depending on the provider and method used, but generally includes:

An initial assessment of your needs and goals

Guided outdoor activities in parks, forests, or gardens

Mindfulness and grounding exercises in nature

Reflection and discussion with your therapist

Activities that promote environmental awareness and wellbeing

Sessions may be individual or group-based and can last from 30 minutes to several hours.

Who Conducts This Service?

Ecotherapy is provided by:

Trained ecotherapists

Counsellors or psychotherapists with experience in nature-based practices

Mental health professionals with additional training in outdoor therapy

Accredited wilderness or adventure therapists

Many are registered with professional therapy bodies and have undergone specific ecotherapy training.

Who Might Need This Service?

Ecotherapy is beneficial for people who:

Are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression

Feel disconnected or overwhelmed by urban life

Are looking for alternative or complementary mental health support

Want to explore a more holistic approach to healing

Enjoy being in nature and find peace in outdoor environments

It is suitable for adults, teens, and even families.

Types of Ecotherapy

Common forms include:

Green Exercise Therapy: Structured physical activity in nature

Horticultural Therapy: Gardening and plant-based interaction

Animal-Assisted Ecotherapy: Interacting with animals in natural settings

Wilderness Therapy: Deep immersion in nature, often for personal growth

Nature Meditation and Mindfulness: Outdoor meditative practices

Your therapist may use one or a blend of these approaches.

Risks Associated with Ecotherapy

Ecotherapy is generally low-risk but may include:

Physical risks depending on the environment (e.g., rough terrain or weather)

Emotional triggers during outdoor exposure or reflection

Discomfort for those with allergies or fears related to nature

These are minimised with proper planning and guidance from a trained ecotherapist.

How to Choose the Right Health Professional

When selecting an ecotherapy provider, consider:

Their qualifications in counselling, psychotherapy, or coaching

Specific training in ecotherapy or outdoor therapy modalities

Experience with mental health conditions and nature-based methods

Their approach to safety and environmental responsibility

My Health Assistant makes this easy by offering detailed profiles of professionals offering this service near you.

Summary

Ecotherapy is a powerful, nature-based approach to mental health, helping individuals reduce stress and reconnect with themselves and the environment. Whether through walking in woodlands or mindful gardening, this service offers a gentle, effective path to healing. Use My Health Assistant to find a trusted ecotherapy service near me and begin your journey to improved wellbeing through the healing power of nature.