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
Philosophy Continued
My philosophy is both pluralistic and pragmatic; in plain terms that means there is more than one way to view “reality” (for example in relationships and organizations). Our task at any moment is to choose the most ethical and effective course of action given the information we have.
In terms of my “theoretical orientation” (the way I think about working with people), my stance is integrative in that I draw from different theories and approaches in psychology that are known to be effective.
- Existential-humanistic approaches value humans’ innate tendencies toward health and personal growth and the importance of finding a sense of meaning in life.
- Cognitive-Behavioral approaches promote an active exploration of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and value honest testing of personal assumptions and the effectiveness of therapy techniques.
- Interpersonal approaches help us to understand people in terms of their relationships with others and recognize the importance of early childhood relationships in creating the mental maps that guide us in adulthood.
- Mind-body approaches, such as guided relaxation and mindfulness meditation, utilize the connection between our physical state and our thoughts and emotions.
- Ecological and systemic approaches allow us to broaden the scope to include our interactions with community and political systems, our sense of place, and relationship with nature.
I guide my clients toward personal sustainability through building a safe and trusting relationship, using healing stories and metaphors, providing up-to-date information about psychology and mind-body health, and suggesting personal growth activities such as reading, watching films, spending time outdoors or experimenting with behaviors or relationships. We take a close look at ingrained habits and personality styles, early family and cultural experiences, and day to day activities. At times, we set goals and move toward them diligently. We also recognize when the wisest course is to let go of preconceived notions. Acceptance can create an open space for new growth to occur.
For clients seeking empowerment regarding sustainable lifestyles and environment advocacy, we create practices of mindfulness and self-nurturing that provide a base for grounded action.