Nature Informed Therapy
Research & Study
Explore the rigorous research and scientific studies that substantiate the effectiveness of Nature Informed Therapy (NIT). This page presents a collection of research, beginning with our seminal study on the therapy's impact in substance use disorder treatment and expanding to include various other contexts and benefits.
Featured Study: Impact of NIT in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Objective:
Evaluate the effectiveness of NIT in enhancing mental health outcomes in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment settings. Key Findings:
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Increased Attention and Cognitive Function
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Reduced Stress and Anxiety
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Enhanced Self-Efficacy
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Improved Mood and Emotional Regulation
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Prosocial Behavior and Empathy
Connection to Nature
Metodology
Evaluate the effectiveness of NIT in enhancing mental health outcomes in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment settings. Key Findings:
-
Increased Attention and Cognitive Function
-
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
-
Enhanced Self-Efficacy
-
Improved Mood and Emotional Regulation
-
Prosocial Behavior and Empathy
Connection to Nature
Metodology
Utilized a one-group retrospective post-then-pre questionnaire design.
Statistical Significance and Effect Sizes:
Reported large effect sizes and statistically significant improvements across various outcomes.
Limitations:
Noted the absence of a control group and reliance on self-reported measures.
Study Summary
The report evaluates the implementation of Nature Informed Therapy (NIT) within a substance use disorder (SUD) treatment setting. The evaluation focused on a one-group retrospective post-then-pre questionnaire design, which assessed changes in six key outcomes: increased attention, decreased stress and anxiety, increased self-efficacy, improved mood, increased prosocial behavior, and connection to nature. The results showed statistically significant improvements in all measured outcomes, with large effect sizes indicated by Cohen's d values . Despite these positive findings, the report acknowledges several limitations such as the lack of a control group, reliance on self-reported measures, and the absence of randomization, which may overestimate the effectiveness of the program. The report suggests considering these factors critically when interpreting the results. Additionally, the study highlighted a significant improvement in client engagement and treatment retention, suggesting that integrating NIT could enhance SUD treatment outcomes . Overall, the findings support the integration of Nature Informed Therapy in substance use disorder treatment, highlighting both its benefits and the need for rigorous methodological approaches in future research to confirm these results.
Download the Full Study
NIT Related Researches
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Jessica Hunt
Substance use
disorders (SUDs) are associated with impaired functioning creating a significant burden for the
affected individuals, families, and communities (Daley, 2013). Despite the high prevalence rates
as well as impact on functioning, only about 10 percent of people with a SUD will receive
specialized treatment (Surgeon General’s Report, n.d.). This makes it essential for those who do
seek and receive treatment to be offered holistic care that integrates evidence-based interventions
to improve treatment outcomes. According to existing research, NIT potentially intervenes at
multiple levels of contributing factors for SUDs by restoring a healthy relationship with nature,
self, and others as well as decreasing risk for psychological disorders leading to improvements in
mental health and well-being (CNIT, n.d. ).
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Lydia Asisten
Lydia Asisten analyzed pre‑ and post‑program NIBSMA surveys from CNIT participants and found consistent, across‑the‑board improvements. Average scores rose in all five domains—stress dropped while cognitive clarity, social connection, spiritual well‑being, and nature relatedness increased—producing a single, high‑well‑being cluster after the program. Qualitative comments echoed these gains, indicating that CNIT’s nature‑based interventions reliably boost overall mental health and strengthen people’s bond with nature.
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René T. Proyer
This editorial introduces a special issue of the International Journal of Play, offering multidisciplinary perspectives on adult play and playfulness. It highlights eight original contributions and two comments, exploring topics such as the evolutionary benefits of playfulness, cultural transmission of play, playful learning in higher education, and the impact of play on creativity and urban design. The issue also addresses the role of play in psychiatry and conceptualizes BDSM as a form of adult play. The aim is to stimulate further research into the diverse applications and benefits of playfulness in adult life.
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Edgar L. and more
This report, developed by UMKC's RN-BSN students in collaboration with the Berkley Child and Family Development Center, highlights the crucial role of outdoor play in children's brain development. It discusses the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional benefits of outdoor activities for children from infancy through school age. Emphasizing experiential learning, the report provides practical ideas for incorporating outdoor play at home and underscores the importance of recess in schools. It also addresses barriers to outdoor play and advocates for more opportunities for children to engage in unstructured, outdoor activities.
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Heidi Schreiber-Pan
This dissertation investigates the relationship between connectedness to nature, spirituality, and psychological well-being. Utilizing the Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS) and Nature Relatedness Scale (NRS), the study measures individuals' connection to nature and its impact on well-being, assessed through the Connor-Davidson Resiliency Scale (CD-RISC) and the Scales of Psychological Well-Being (SPWB). Findings indicate a significant correlation between nature connectedness and well-being, with spirituality playing a mediating role. The study underscores the mental health benefits of a strong nature connection and highlights the importance of spirituality in enhancing psychological resilience and well-being. Implications for integrating nature into therapeutic practices are discussed, offering valuable insights for clinicians and counseling educators.
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Sam J. Cooley and more
This meta-synthesis examines the practice of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces, synthesizing insights from 38 articles with 322 practitioners and 163 clients. It highlights the benefits of nature, such as reduced stress and improved mood, and proposes a framework for best practices. Key themes include individualized client assessment, the therapeutic advantages of mutuality and freedom, and the importance of risk management and informed consent. The study emphasizes the enrichment of therapy through holistic integration and improved practitioner well-being, advocating for the inclusion of nature in therapeutic practices as a potentially more effective alternative to conventional indoor therapy.