Ecopsychology in Counseling Certificate

Program Details

Credits: 10 semester hours
Program Start: Spring only
View program of study in current course catalog
Program Directors: Thomas Joseph Doherty, Psy.D., and Tod Sloan, Ph.D.             Adjunct Faculty: Patricia Hasbach, Ph.D.  

The Ecopsychology in Counseling Certificate explores the relationships between mental health, wellbeing and the natural environment and ways in which counseling psychologists can contribute to conservation and sustainability. The courses draw on a robust body of scientific research—on topics such as the restorative value of green spaces for health and stress reduction and the psychological determinants of sustainability behaviors—and applies these insights in counseling and mental health practice. Our course work is also grounded in ecology as science and philosophy—both shallow and deep—environmental ethics, the arts, and contemporary movements toward social and environmental justice.

The Certificate provides an opportunity for masters students to combine comprehensive training in fields such as community counseling and marriage, couples, and family therapy with an evidence-based, experiential and socially progressive ecopsychology curriculum. A ten-credit sequence of courses provides an introduction to ecopsychology and its basis in environmental philosophy, empirical research, and critical theory; applied training in wilderness / adventure therapy and ecotherapy; and an opportunity to explore advanced topics such as nature and child development, diversity, and social and environmental justice. An integrative and self-designed capstone project, such as a thesis or supervised practicum, completes the certificate.

By situating the Ecopsychology in Counseling Certificate within the accredited programs of the Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling, we seek to achieve our mission of creating license-eligible and employable counselors who are prepared to effectively engage the pressing social and environmental issues of our time.

See detailed information on our FAQ page. Course descriptions can be found in the catalog. Ecopsychology in Counseling offerings are also offered for Continuing Education through the Lewis & Clark Center for Community Engagement.  

 

What Is Ecopsychology?

A recent article in the New York Times Magazine explores the emerging field of ecotherapy.

Watch an interview with Ecopsychology Studies Coordinator Thomas Doherty and students from the Foundations of Ecopsychology class. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Please visit our FAQ page for detailed information about admissions, program advice, and career information.

Program Philosophy

Learn more about the guiding, evidence-based philosophy of the ecopsychology program.

Community

Read more about the work of ecopsychology faculty, recent student projects, and more on our Community page.

News and Events

Read about recent news and events related to the Ecopsychology in Counseling program