Ecowellness: Theory and Applications in Ecotherapy

By Mary J. Thornbush

This SpringerBrief provides a comprehensive synthesis of EcoWellness as both a theoretical framework and a practical methodology for ecotherapy. It traces how EcoWellness has been conceptualized, measured, and applied across counseling, education, supervision, and nature-based therapeutic practices, offering a clear pathway from foundational concepts to real-world implementation. Drawing on a systematic review of contemporary research, the book identifies the core components of EcoWellness, including access to nature, environmental identity, and transcendence, and demonstrates how these elements support emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual well-being. The brief also highlights significant gaps in the evidence-base, including limited methodological rigor, demographic diversity, and global representation, and proposes strategies for strengthening future research and practice. By integrating developmental theory, practical interventions, and empirical insights, the brief addresses the central problem of how to operationalize EcoWellness in meaningful, ethically grounded ways. It is written for scholars, practitioners, educators, and graduate students in counseling, ecotherapy, ecopsychology, and related helping professions.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 3032378990
• ISBN13: 9783032378996
• Release Date: October 2026
• Publisher: Springer
• Length: 67 Pages