An Evidence-Based Approach to Assess Ecotherapy Currently in Practice

Abstract

In this systematic review, an evidence-based approach is adopted to address the use of ecotherapy in psychotherapeutic practice. Two literature databases (APA PsycNET, Web of Science) were searched for environmental psychology (or ecopsychology) and ecotherapy to access practice-relevant studies. The searches derived 15 items that are examined in detail in this paper. Summary tables are provided of information about study type, impetus, activities, data collection, and sample size, plus demographic information concerning sex/ gender, age, ethnicity/ race, and education. Data are scanty for the latter two demographic variables. The available evidence suggests that studies are predominantly White (Western), mainly completed as participants by those with at least an undergraduate degree, and dominated by women participants from a range of ages. Introducing ecotherapy into psychotherapy may serve as a way to contribute towards diversity through Indigenous perspectives of nature.