The Forest as the counseling office
COVID ushered in a new kind of relationship with nature and emerging science continues to demonstrate that many health related concerns, including mental health, are in connection with a lack of natural spaces. Among these natural settings for counselors to consider incorporating, forests stand out as particularly potent environments for facilitating psychological healing and transformation. Delving into the how and why of this phenomenon can provide valuable insights for counselors seeking holistic approaches to therapy.
Forests have long been regarded as spaces of spiritual and emotional significance across various cultures. These lush, serene environments offer solace and serve as sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of urban life (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989). The Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or “forest bathing,” exemplifies the ancient understanding of the forest’s therapeutic potential. Studies have shown that regular immersion in forest environments can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive functioning (Park et al., 2010). Just 2 hours a week can have a tremendous impact on a clients mental health–if possible, consider exploring the utility of counseling within a natural environment, such as the forest. These findings underscore the need for counselors to consider the forest not just as a backdrop, but as an active contributor to the therapeutic process.
From a biopsychosocial perspective, the benefits of forest immersion are multifaceted. Biologically, the forest environment promotes physiological relaxation. Breathing in the phytoncides (natural oils emitted by trees) has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, lower anxiety, improve mood, and boost concentration (Li, 2010). Such an environment can help clients become more receptive to therapy, as they might be in a more relaxed and contemplative state. Socially, the forest provides a break from the often overwhelming stimuli of urban environments. In these tranquil settings, the din of traffic, the glare of screens, and the pressures of social roles momentarily fade, allowing for more genuine introspection (Hartig et al., 2014). The shared experience of being in nature can also foster a stronger therapeutic bond between counselor and client.
From a psychological perspective, forests serve as symbolic spaces, representing the untamed, organic aspects of the human psyche. Engaging with the forest allows clients to tap into the deeper, more primal layers of their consciousness. Nature, in its unbiased form, might allow for the surfacing of authentic feelings and insights that could remain buried in more structured environments (Jordan & Hinds, 2016). Moreover, nature-based interventions are grounded in experiential learning. For instance, navigating through the forest can mirror the journey of navigating through personal challenges. Overcoming physical obstacles, such as a tangled path or a steep incline, can be therapeutic metaphors for confronting emotional barriers. Counselors can utilize these natural challenges as symbolic tools, encouraging clients to reflect on their experiences and draw parallels with their emotional journeys.
Counselors may also consider using forest found objects as materials for arts-based interventions within the counseling process. Natural materials are ripe for storytelling and metaphor exploration in connection with the clients presenting concerns. Also, the natural objects themselves can act as regulation objects for clients struggling with anxiety.
Despite the compelling arguments for forest-based counseling, it is essential to approach such interventions with sensitivity and forethought. Clients’ comfort, safety, and individual preferences should be paramount. Counselors should work with a lawyer to develop an effective informed consent about the risks of engaging in counseling in the forest. Additionally, cultural considerations must be taken into account, recognizing that perceptions of nature vary across different cultural backgrounds.
In conclusion, forests offer a unique, enriching dimension to the therapeutic process. Their calm, immersive environments can catalyze deep introspection, promote physiological relaxation, and foster a stronger counselor-client bond. As the world grapples with the challenges of modernity, perhaps the timeless wisdom of the forest holds the key to healing and transformation.
References
Hartig, T., Mitchell, R., de Vries, S., & Frumkin, H. (2014). Nature and health. Annual review of public health, 35, 207–228.
Jordan, M., & Hinds, J. (2016). Ecotherapy: Theory, research and practice. Macmillan International Higher Education.
Kaplan, S., & Kaplan, R. (1989). The experience of nature: A psychological perspective. Cambridge University Press.
Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental health and preventive medicine, 15(1), 9–17.
Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environmental health and preventive medicine, 15(1), 18–26.
