Integrating eco-therapy into coaching psychology: A dual case study of grounding, meaning-making, and emergent agency.
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| Title: | Integrating eco-therapy into coaching psychology: A dual case study of grounding, meaning-making, and emergent agency. |
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| Authors: | Canessa-Pollard, Valentina (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | International Coaching Psychology Review. Spring2026, Vol. 21 Issue 1, p55-69. 15p. |
| Subjects: | Coaching psychology, Environmental psychology, Autonomy (Philosophy), Emotion regulation, Psychological distress, Narration, Climate change |
| Abstract: | Introduction: Climate change is increasingly recognised not only as an environmental crisis but also as a source of psychological distress. Eco-therapy and coaching psychology offer promising, complementary approaches – but little research has explored their integration. This dual-case study examines the impact of eco-therapy-informed coaching on individuals experiencing climate-related emotional distress. Methods: Two participants each engaged in a single coaching session – one outdoors and one online – designed to address eco-emotional challenges. Both sessions incorporated nature-based and somatic practices, followed by a semi-structured interview. Results: Reflexive thematic analysis identified four key themes: (1) from disconnection to grounded presence, including embodied reconnection and emotional regulation; (2) meaning-making and personal agency through metaphor and imagery; (3) integration beyond the session, as participants adapted eco-therapeutic practices into daily life; and (4) constraints and complexities, including the need for emotional containment and psychologically safe engagement with climate-related emotions. Discussion: The sessions facilitated shifts from emotional overwhelm to grounded clarity, helping participants reconnect with their bodies, reflect on their values, and develop sustainable practices. Nature-based metaphors and embodied experiences served as powerful tools for insight and agency, though emotional intensity and the scale of climate distress remained key challenges. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the integration of eco-therapy and coaching psychology. While limited by a small, self-selecting sample, the findings suggest potential for wider application and highlight the need for trauma-informed practice and further research across diverse populations and contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | Introduction: Climate change is increasingly recognised not only as an environmental crisis but also as a source of psychological distress. Eco-therapy and coaching psychology offer promising, complementary approaches – but little research has explored their integration. This dual-case study examines the impact of eco-therapy-informed coaching on individuals experiencing climate-related emotional distress. Methods: Two participants each engaged in a single coaching session – one outdoors and one online – designed to address eco-emotional challenges. Both sessions incorporated nature-based and somatic practices, followed by a semi-structured interview. Results: Reflexive thematic analysis identified four key themes: (1) from disconnection to grounded presence, including embodied reconnection and emotional regulation; (2) meaning-making and personal agency through metaphor and imagery; (3) integration beyond the session, as participants adapted eco-therapeutic practices into daily life; and (4) constraints and complexities, including the need for emotional containment and psychologically safe engagement with climate-related emotions. Discussion: The sessions facilitated shifts from emotional overwhelm to grounded clarity, helping participants reconnect with their bodies, reflect on their values, and develop sustainable practices. Nature-based metaphors and embodied experiences served as powerful tools for insight and agency, though emotional intensity and the scale of climate distress remained key challenges. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the integration of eco-therapy and coaching psychology. While limited by a small, self-selecting sample, the findings suggest potential for wider application and highlight the need for trauma-informed practice and further research across diverse populations and contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 17502764 |
| DOI: | 10.53841/bpsicpr.2026.21.1.55 |
