Ecotherapy and adventure therapy : a preliminary study within the Maltese context

Abstract

This preliminary study examined Maltese counsellors’ knowledge and perception of ecotherapy and adventure therapy and sought to better understand if and how these innovative therapeutic approaches are currently being practiced in Malta. A mixed-method approach was used in this study. The quantitative part included an online questionnaire which was sent through the Malta Association for the Counselling Profession to counsellors who practice in Malta and Gozo. This questionnaire was answered by 39 counsellors. The qualitative part consisted of elite interviews with therapeutic professionals who include ecotherapy and adventure therapy in their practice. The quantitative findings showed that most of the Maltese counsellors who participated in the study, seem to be unaware of ecotherapy and adventure therapy. However, the majority of the counsellors who replied to the questionnaire expressed that they believe that these therapeutic techniques could be helpful to at least some of the clients they are currently working with. Most counsellors who participated also felt that access to nature or the lack of it could impact the client’s well-being. The study also highlighted various challenges that the counsellors perceive as being a barrier that can hinder these therapeutic approaches such as the limitation of adequate natural spaces in Malta and issues concerning confidentiality, boundaries, and safety. The qualitative findings indicated that ecotherapy and adventure therapy offer unique advantages such as the therapeutic benefits of nature, enhancing the therapeutic relationship and encouraging clients to take a more active role in the therapeutic process. Recommendations include further research on a culturally sensitive implementation of therapeutic interventions, information and training about these approaches, and addressing the ethical considerations in outdoor therapies.