Ecotherapy: Finding Self in Nature with Natalie Thomas

The One Inside: An Internal Family Systems (IFS) podcast

In today’s episode I chat with Dr. Natalie Thomas, a psychotherapist and philosopher specializing in climate distress and ecological grief. Natalie, a presenter at the 2024 IFS Annual Conference, explains how nature influences our internal parts and the role of Self Energy in healing, both individually and globally. We explore the connection between humans, animals, and the planet, and how slowing down to engage with nature can shift how we relate to ourselves and the world around us.

We discuss:

• How can we reconnect with nature and access our self-energy for healing?
• The concept of ecotherapy, which includes "walk-and-talk" therapy, inter-species healing, and other outdoor- and nature-focused approaches
• How nature can be a third entity (triad) in the therapeutic process
• Simple practices for connecting with Self in nature, including forest bathing and engaging the senses
• Animals have parts too
• What is “inter-species” healing?
• Parts-driven vs. Self-led activism, and how inner healing can lead to more effective, compassionate, and sustainable actions
• Climate Cafes: hosting a safe space for eco-emotional healing

One of my favorite quotes from the episode:

"When we’re in nature, we can access our Self Energy and our parts in a different way—it’s like being part of a larger ecosystem, both inside and out." — Natalie Thomas

To learn more:

• Climate Cafes

• Natalie’s upcoming session on ecotherapy and climate distress at the 2024 IFS Annual Conference.

• Natalie’s article in Parts & Self magazine

• Natalie's website

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Jeff Schrum co-produces The One Inside Podcast. He is a writer, counselor, and IFS Level 1 practitioner.

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Tammy is grateful for Jack Reardon who created music for the podcast. Jack is a graduate of Derek Scott’s IFS Stepping Stones Program.

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