Our Approach
The Embers Project focuses on three interwoven strands
Connection with Nature
Environmental and Community Action
Wellbeing and Personal Resilience
Our approach is based on Ecopsychology principles, and the understanding that we as humans are part of nature, not separate from it. It recognizes that much of our distress arises from our modern day fracture and disconnection from the natural world. This artificial ‘separation’ from the rest of Nature has allowed us to view it as a ‘resource’; to use (and harm) for our own ends. As such, Ecotherapy (Ecopsychology applied) aims to cultivate a deeper connection with the rest of nature and repair these missing bonds. By doing so, we hope to feel more resourced, resilient and ‘alive’. And by doing so, we hope to foster a more conscious and compassionate way of tending to the natural world. At its core, our work focuses on our (often unmet) need; for a deeply felt sense of connection and belonging, and the meaningful actions that follow from it.
Our Process
In our work, we make use of the Embers Project ‘4 Pillars’ Model, (Strength, Descent, Insight, Integration).
We view the Pillars as being reciprocal, continually informing and reinforcing one another.
The 4 Pillars model is informed by evidence-based models of Psychological Therapy (including Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-based therapies and Trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR). It is also heavily influenced by 'The Work That Reconnects’ and the teachings of Joanna Macy, Ecopsychology and models of Nature Connection (e.g. Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature by Young, Haas & McGown). We are also particularly influenced by the TerraSoma Ecotherapy approach and training from Wilderness Reflections.
