Ecopsychologists' Vital Importance in the Time of Climate Crises

Ecopsychology is a systems-based philosophy that expands the therapeutic lens to include client
interactions with and perceptions of the natural environment as an integral element of well-being
or pathology. Ecopsychology, known forward as EP, also looks at the pathology of our culture
and what kind of diagnoses lead to practices that put our planet at risk. In recent decades, the
field has amassed a substantial amount of empirical evidence supporting its effectiveness but
remains largely underutilized. First generation EP suggested a cultural reordering shifting away
from consumer culture and reordering our way of life. Second generation posits working within
the current structure is sufficient. They seek to green psychology, meaning utilizing nature as a
healing medium, and gather empirical evidence to bring credibility to the field. Most researchers
and practitioners agree a new perspective is needed to challenge the dominant social paradigm
which views nature and the earth as expendable and separate from human health. As the current
political climate becomes more central, there is need for "green" psychologists who are prepared
to handle climate refugees, climate change, and mass extinction. By interviewing experts, this
phenomenological study seeks to demystify EP while exploring future directions, as well as
obstacles, to making it a legitimized field. This research also lends support to ecopsychology,
and its applied practice known as ecotherapy as a viable and necessary treatment approach to a
range of psychopathologies including anxiety, depression, and ADHD.