Contours of humanistic ecopsychotherapy

Nature is increasingly becoming a part of psychotherapeutic work with clients. In the multitude of different approaches and unclear conceptualizations, it is easy to get lost in this area. The existing theoretical discussions do not provide sufficient support for the definition of a distinct ecopsychotherapy which would be based on a psychotherapeutic approach and identity. The article offers both a reflection on the current state of this new form/modality of psychotherapy and a perspective on the Person-Centered Approach and Gestalt Therapy, which have a close relationship with nature, particularly because they approach humans as organisms interacting with their environment. This article identifies seven foundational principles of humanistic ecopsychotherapy, illustrated through a case study, and offers a theoretical framework for its application and future development. For its further development, not only spontaneous practice but also professional discussion and methodological anchoring are important. The authors seek to initiate discussions on defining ecopsychotherapy.