What if nature-based therapy could meet the same rigorous standards as public mental health treatments?
With a set-up that is, so far, unique in the field, this work reflects a long-standing ambition to build a solid research foundation in the NBI/NBT area, not the least, to measure up to the very high standards of “treatments” in Public Mental Health.
We share insights from Petra Ellora Cau Wetterholm, Clinical Psychologist and CEO of the Scandinavian Nature and Teraphy Institute (SNFTI), and one of our valued GreenME Partners.
NBST: Nature Based Stress Therapy
At the core of this work is a 12-week, manualised Forest Therapy programme currently being investigated by the Swedish GreenME team through an RCT design.
“It is one of the few international, structured and detailed programs available, building on earlier 6- and 8-week formats” – Petra notes
Beyond programme design, a broader challenge remains. Petra highlights “a GAP in communication and ‘know how’ we need to bridge in society,” stressing the importance of bringing this expertise into the spotlight , particularly as it meets the required standards in public mental health.
This structured approach is key to shifting perceptions. Through clear methods, process descriptions and a firm theoretical base, nature-based therapy is moving beyond what she refers to as the “fluffy” quarters. Instead, it is increasingly recognised as “a sincere effort to offer a valuable complementary intervention for the benefit of people and nature alike.”
Eco Forest Therapy
Over the past decade, Petra has developed Eco Forest Therapy , a methodology grounded in a solid scientific base and supported by specific process and skills models. These are brought together under one framework: SHIFT M.A.P.
Novelty
A distinctive feature of the NBST interventions lies in their delivery. Specially trained and certified Forest Therapy Guides lead the same manualised interventions across diverse settings, from urban to peri-urban environments , under standardized weekly supervision. All guides undergo a six-month training and certification process led personally by Petra, ensuring consistency and quality across groups.
Scientific research
The methodology and programmes have already been scientifically evaluated, showing significant outcomes: improved wellbeing and reduced symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety. Notably, the research also highlights a broader impact, increased nature connectedness correlates with a greater willingness to protect nature.
As Petra puts it
“This way of spending time in nature connects inner and outer health, linking personal wellbeing with sustainability”.