"The web of life both cradles us and calls us to weave it further."

— Joanna Macy

Ecopsychology

Ecopsychology advances our understanding of psychology (the study of mind, emotions, behavior, and identity) in the context of nature and the global environment. Ecopsychology draws from many sources including science and research, psychotherapy theories and practices, environmental ethics, literature, the arts, and spirituality.

Thomas Joseph Doherty is a leader in ecopsychology—a bridge between the world of scientific research and the world of therapy and action. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Ecopsychology and Coordinator of the Ecopsychology in Counseling Certificate Program at the Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Counseling.  Thomas helped author the American Psychological Association’s report on the Interface Between Psychology and Global Climate Change.

For an example of how Dr. Doherty helps people apply ecopsychology in their lives take his Personal Sustainability Inventory. For examples of Thomas' talk and work with organizations, see our Talks & Workshops page.

Ecopsychology Applied: A Sustainable Self

In his work, Dr. Thomas Doherty uses the concept of personal sustainability to move environmental ethics from the abstract world of ideas to individuals' day-to-day life and to provide a positive and exciting way to think about personal and collective health. Viewing one's identity through the lenses of ecology and sustainability allows for an experience of being embedded in the earth's larger natural systems and cycles. Aspiring to a "sustainable self" means finding harmony between self image, physical needs, the natural world, and the other beings that live on this planet.

See a list of Ecopsychology publications