The Group EcoWellness Model of Change: A Conceptual Framework for Facilitating Groups in Nature

ABSTRACT

Group counselors who facilitate groups in and around natural environments may benefit from a clear conceptual model that delineates the underlying theorized elements of therapeutic change in such settings. We sought to develop a theoretically grounded model of change for developing and evaluating nature-based groups, which we call the Group EcoWellness Model of Change (GEMC). The purpose of this article is to describe the theoretical underpinnings of the GEMC and explore one application of the framework in articulating the Fishing for Wellness therapeutic group. Implications for group counseling practice and research are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Adventure-based counseling
• ecotherapy
• Ecowellness
• group counseling
• wilderness therapy

Additional information

Funding

This project received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Notes on contributors

Ryan F. Reese

Dr. Ryan F. Reese is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at Oregon State University Cascades in Bend, Oregon.

Marjorie Gosling

Marjorie Gosling is a child and family therapist at Options for Southern Oregon and has a private practice in Medford, Oregon.