JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (March 11, 2022) – East Tennessee State University’s Department of Counseling and Human Services is now offering a graduate certificate in Nature-Based Therapy. The certificate offers an immersive, comprehensive preparation for the creation of nature-based therapeutic services and programming, as well as the integration of nature-based therapeutic practices into traditional approaches.
“The physical and psychological benefits of engaging with nature are well documented
in literature. As urbanization continues to increase, it is more important than ever
to intentionally integrate nature into our lives and to develop deep, meaningful connections
with the natural world,” said Dr. Bethany Novotny, assistant professor in the Human
Services program. “Nature-based therapy is an emerging field that blends the therapeutic
benefits of counseling with the healing power of contact with the natural world. I
am honored to be part of the new Nature-Based Therapy Graduate Certificate program
and cannot imagine a better place than ETSU and the Appalachian Highlands to train
students and contribute to research in this rapidly growing field.”
The 15-credit program is comprised of four required three credit courses, in addition
to an additional advisor-approved three credit course. Prospective students will have
the opportunity to develop skills relevant to individual and community healing, development
and wellness. This includes practical skills for programming logistics, implementation,
administration and risk management. Additional topics covered throughout the program
include, but are not limited to: ecopsychology, ecotherapy, “Leave No Trace” philosophy,
land stewardship practices, existing nature-based program models, multicultural perspectives
and outdoor behavioral healthcare.
“Having had a long fascination with holistic wellness and naturopathy, I am excited
about the opportunity to engage in this program,” said student Nancy Estrada. “Learning
the science behind the benefits of engagement with nature while applying therapeutic
techniques and interventions has been amazing. As a Navy veteran, I have spent up
to nine months living inside an aircraft carrier. Learning how to decompress from
those experiences and to be able to help others do so is incredible!”
In addition to the admissions criteria set by the ETSU School of Graduate Studies, prospective students must also include two letters of recommendation with their
application. Domestic applicants who wish to apply to the program must do so by no
later than 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 10, 2022. International applicants must submit their
applications no later than 11:59 p.m. on May 1, 2022.
For more information about the Nature-Based Therapy graduate certificate, contact
Novotny at novotny@etsu.edu or call (423) 439-7073.