Ecotherapy & the Work That Reconnects
ONLINE COURSE // SEPT 22 – NOV 10
In this course, we will explore Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects (WTR) through an ecotherapeutic lens to help us better face the ecological realities of our day, develop psycho-emotional resilience, and deepen our Earth reconnection practices in service of others. With over 40 years since its inception, the WTR is considered a pioneering group methodology that has helped thousands of people overcome apathy and despair, tap into the self-healing qualities of nature, and act on behalf of the web of life.
Either for personal inspiration, community empowerment or to support your client’s journey, the WTR provides a solid, compassionate framework out of which a renewed sense of who we are and who we might become emerges. This fresh perspective often brings about an enlarged sense of purpose and direction, as well as newly available psycho-emotional resources nurtured by a sense of belonging to Earth’s community.
The course integrates group work, theoretical sessions, meditation, consultations, ritual, work at home, and Earth reconnection practices for self-discovery and healing. All this within a compassionate atmosphere that invites the openness and determination needed to enter into a more fulfilling relation with the living Earth, within and without.
What will you learn?
- A solid framework to foster personal eco-resiliency and community empowerment
- Time-tested practices to incorporate to your ecotherapy practice or nature-based counseling/coaching
- Transformative approaches to face eco-grief, despair, and environmental loss
- A renewed sense of inspiration to act on behalf of life
- A deepening of your own Earth Reconnection practices in service of wellbeing and healing
Program Details
Two-month Duration
Six Two-hour Classes
Two 60-minute Small Group Sessions
One Individual 30-Minute Session
Reading Materials & Multimedia Resources
Intimate Learning Community
Approx. 4 Hour Commitment Time per Week
100% Online
Structure & Calendar
The course structure is informed by the four phases of the Work That Reconnects (WTR) Spiral; an archetypal structure that helps mobilize inner resources and facilitate the emergence of more environmentally sound and psychologically viable attitudes and behaviors. In addition, there’s an ongoing exploration of the synergy between Ecotherapy and the WTR throughout the different sessions.
The course is composed of 6 two-hour classes, two 60-minute small group sessions, and one individual 30-minute session—all distributed in two months. Ongoing engagement takes place via a virtual classroom on the Teachable platform.
| WEEK | ACTIVITY | DATE/TIME |
| 1 | Roots of Resilience: Choosing Life | Sept 22nd, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 2 | Gratitude & Earth Reconnection | Sept 29th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 3 | Pain the Size of Earth | Oct 6th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 4 | Small Group Sessions | Oct 11-15, TBD |
| 5 | Greening of the Self | Oct 20th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 6 | Integrating our Ecological Niche | Oct 27th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 7 | Applications & Ecotherapeutic Interventions | Nov 3rd, 5:00 – 7:00 pm (PST) |
| 8 | One-on-One Sessions | Nov 8-10, TBD |
Who’s the Course For?
Everyone interested in deepening their own nature reconnection practices and service, as well as health care and counseling professionals, teachers, coaches, and wellness practitioners interested in incorporating the theory and practices of the Work That Reconnects in beneficial ways to clients or patients.
People of any gender identity, culture, race, religion, sexual orientation, and economic circumstance are welcomed.
Investment
- $397 USD (one time payment)
- Two 50% scholarships available on a first come, first serve basis (please contact us directly)
- To register, follow the two simple steps found in the Registration section below.
There’s a minimum of 8 people for the course to run.
About the Teacher
Adrián Villaseñor Galarza
Adrián is an eco-psychologist, international facilitator, author, academic contributor, ritualist, and contemplative practitioner. He holds a master’s degree in Holistic Science (UK) and a doctorate in Ecology, Psychology and Consciousness (USA). He has trained in various therapeutic modalities, including contemplative psychotherapy (USA) and systemic and transpersonal therapy (Spain, USA, Mexico).
Adrián’s work is considered a Latin American reference when it comes to Deep Ecology, Ecopsychology, and Earth-based Spirituality. His work is inspired by his experiences with native traditions of the Americas, his contemplative practice, and his animistic sensibility (click here to learn more).
Registration
Complete the following two steps to register:
