The implementation of our project was driven by a set of clear objectives to address the pressing needs in the field of substance misuse treatment: - To train professionals, particularly drug and alcohol counsellors, to better support people with substance misuse disorders. We provided comprehensive training to equip them with the knowledge and skills to integrate ecotherapy into their practice. - To introduce ecotherapy as an innovative approach to drug and alcohol counsellors. By adding nature-based interventions to their therapeutic toolkit, we aimed to transform their practice. - To meet the demand for highly qualified drug and alcohol treatment professionals by improving the skills of counsellors. Our training initiatives aimed to improve treatment outcomes by raising the standard of care. - To support training institutions and treatment centres in integrating ecotherapy courses and sessions. We provided guidance and resources to facilitate the seamless integration of ecotherapy into existing curricula and treatment programmes, thereby increasing access to nature-based interventions for those in need.
Our project addresses the urgent need for specialised training in ecotherapy for professionals working with substance misuse disorders. Substance abuse is a major social problem in the EU, with high rates of alcohol and drug use. Recognising the potential of ecotherapy to complement conventional treatment methods, we applied for this project to fill the gap in professional education and training for drug and alcohol misuse counsellors. By developing innovative resources and curricula, we aim to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to integrate ecotherapy into their practice and meet the urgent need for effective and holistic approaches to substance misuse treatment.