As applied ecopsychology, ecotherapy is a practice of
healing that aligns our human selves with the natural world.  It is a way of returning to our roots, as indigenous peoples have for thousands of years.  Human nature separated from body and from earth creates dissociation, neurosis, fear, isolation, and a sense of meaninglessness.  The intent of ecotherapy is to restore our human nature towards a more grounded, vital, soulful relationship with ourselves, the earth, and our people.

In days of old, in villages all around the world, we knew we had two Mothers: our own personal, human Mom; and Mother Earth, fierce and loving, who held us all.  Back then, we were initiated at the coming-of-age time to become mature men and women who could live in sacred reciprocity with the natural and spiritual world.  Rites of passage ensured that we would continue to teach, guide and serve the people in a good way so that the people could endure and thrive. These old ways have largely fallen away and modern technologies are keeping us inside.  For many, nature is a wild and frightening place to be avoided.  We have forgotten our Mother.  Initiation these days is largely replaced by the pharmaceutical industry.  It is an era to begin remembering.

As a collaborator of EarthWays, Cynthia offers wilderness-based Rites of Passage programs, ecopsychology training, and other nature-based experiential courses to the general public. These programs draw upon cross-cultural traditions, yet are suited for our contemporary lives. Whether through a DayQuest, a course, an aspect of psychotherapy, or a full-length Wilderness Vision Fast, come be supported in discovering your deep and unique human gifts through the mirror of nature.

For current ecotherapy offerings, click here.