In an era where medical science and innovation intersect, researchers are exploring diverse therapeutic techniques that promise to revolutionise patient care and enhance their quality of life.
As part of his Master in Counselling at the University’s Faculty for Social Wellbeing, Mr Russell Attard (under the supervision of Roberta Attard), carried out a research project which explored two innovative techniques in therapy – ecotherapy and adventure therapy.
Also known as nature or green therapy, ecotherapy involves engaging with nature to improve mental and physical wellbeing. Adventure therapy, on the other hand, is an experiential therapy which uses outdoor and adventure-based therapy to foster personal development, helping individuals build self-awareness and problem-solving skills.
Named Ecotherapy and Adventure Therapy – A Preliminary Study within the Maltese Context, the research takes a look at whether these two forms of therapy are being utilised in a local context, and if so, how beneficial are they.
This research was supported by the Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme (TESS), which is administered by the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research & Innovation.
Whilst it has emerged that there is a limited awareness of these two types of therapies, an encouraging factor is that counsellors have acknowledged the benefits of these therapies for their clients.
A number of interviews held with therapy practitioners who incorporate these therapies in their practice have led to the highlighting of some advantages such as the recognition of nature as a co-therapist, as well as the calming elements of nature that helps with anxiety and sets the right grounds for reflection and growth.
Attard suggested further research on how ecotherapy and adventure therapy could be integrated into more practises, and insisted that proper training for counsellors is needed.
What do you believe is the biggest benefit of innovative therapeutic techniques?
Do you believe innovation can revolutionise therapy?
