program info | courses | field conditions | instructor | costs
The wilderness has traditionally been a place to go for healing and insight. Perhaps this restorative function of nature is more relevant than ever, given the pace and pressures of modern life. This program offers an intensive immersion in wilderness, a chance for 10 days to leave pavement and obligations behind and encounter the abiding peace and wisdom of the natural world.
Blending academic and experiential components, this program offers an introduction to ecopsychology, wilderness therapy, and counseling psychology. The readings, lectures, and class discussions will provide an overview of the field of ecopsychology and its practical application in wilderness therapy.
The course will also invite participants to engage in a personal growth process designed to foster greater awareness and insight into emotions, nature-based healing modalities, and mindfulness as an approach to counseling.
The program is suitable for mental health professionals with an interest in expanding their practice into wilderness settings, but it is also designed for any individual wanting to learn about ecopsychology and to experience a focused 10 days of immersion in wilderness and self growth.
The program will take place on a 10-day backpacking trip in Ansel Adams Wilderness in the Sierra Mountains of California. Base camp will be along the pristine upper waters of the San Joaquin River. Large and dramatic granite walls and formations line the valley. Clear pools and sunny rocks invite swimming.
Participants arrive on their own to the trailhead on July 21 for an evening orientation. Car pooling will be arranged by instructor. Hiking to base camp begins on July 22. Group disbands from the trailhead on July 30.
program info | courses | field conditions | instructor | costs