"The web of life both cradles us and calls us to weave it further."

— Joanna Macy

Ecopsychology

Ecopsychology advances our understanding of psychology (the study of mind, emotions, behavior, and identity) in the context of nature and the global environment. Ecopsychology draws from many sources including science and research, psychotherapy theories and practices, environmental ethics, literature, the arts, and spirituality.

Thomas Joseph Doherty is a leader in ecopsychology—a bridge between the world of scientific research and the world of therapy and action. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Ecopsychology and Coordinator of the Ecopsychology Studies Program at the Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Counseling.  Thomas helped author the American Psychological Association’s report on the Interface Between Psychology and Global Climate Change.

For an example of how Dr. Doherty helps people apply ecopsychology in their lives take his Personal Sustainability Inventory. For examples of Thomas' talk and work with organizations, see our Talks & Workshops page.

Coming in September 2010: "Nature-based Stress Reduction"

This series of monthly groups meets in beautiful outdoor areas in Portland and combines information about the mental and physical health benefits of spending time in restorative outdoor settings along with facilitated practice of nature-connecting and stress reducing activties, including guided meditation, self-reflection, and mindful walking. Open to all ages and abilities.

Social Justice Implications of Climate Change

Thomas presented the paper "Addressing Social Justice Implications of Climate Change: Barriers and Opportunities" at the American Psychological Association Annual Convention in San Diego, CA on August 14, 2010.

Read a transcript summary of the talk: Addressing Social Justice Implications of Climate Change: Barriers and Opportunities

Ecopsychology Talks & Workshops

• Thomas Doherty is offering a weekend workshop in personal sustainability. See the blog for more details and enrollment information.
  
  
  
• Thomas Doherty and Patricia Hasbach offered a training session on Ecotherapy at Lewis & Clark on April 16, 2010.

+ Course Details
+ Download a flyer

Ecopsychology Videos

• Therapy with a dose of nature

In this video, Thomas Doherty and his Lewis & Clark graduate students discuss ecopsychology and the healing powers of nature.

• Play Again

Thomas Doherty is featured in a video by Portland documentary film makers discussing children, technology and the environment.

Unpublished Writings

• Spring 2010 • The Psychological Impacts of Global Climate Change

Published Writings

• June 2010 • Ecopsychology and Nature Languages. Ecopsychology: 51-52
• March 2010 • Ecopsychology Enters its Second Year. Ecopsychology: 1-3
• December 2009 • Emotional Well-Being and Sustainability: Contributing to the Evidence Base. Ecopsychology: 165-168
• September 2009 • "The Rediscovery of Ecopsychology" . Ecopsychology: 105-109
• September 2009 • Book Review: Ecotherapy: Healing With Nature in Mind | Linda Buzzell & Craig Chalquist | by Lisa Lynch. Ecopsychology: 160-164
• August 2009 • American Psychological Association Climate Change Report
  
• June 2009 • "Leading Ecopsychology". Ecopsychology: 53-56
• June 2009 • Book Review: Ecological Intelligence: How Knowing the Hidden Impacts of What We Buy Can Change Everything | Daniel Goleman | by Thomas Joseph Doherty. Ecopsychology: 100-103
• March 2009 • A Peer Reviewed Journal for Ecopsychology. Ecopsychology: 1-7
• December 2006 • Nurturing the Sustainable Self: Talking to clients about environmental issues

Ecopsychology Journal Interviews

• June 2010 • Michael Cohen: The Ecopsychology Interview. Ecopsychology: 53-57
• December 2009 • Ecopsychology Roundtable: Identity, Well-Being, and Sustainability. Ecopsychology: 169-174
• September 2009 • Shierry Weber Nicholsen. Ecopsychology: 110-117
• June 2009 • Joseph Reser. Ecopsychology: 57-63
• March 2009 • Robert Greenway. Ecopsychology: 47-52