324: Decolonizing Ecotherapy: Laura Marques Brown on Nature, Healing, and Liberation

What does it truly mean to practice ecotherapy? In this episode Will welcomes ecotherapist and founder of Natureza Therapy and Natureza Coaching Collective, Laura Marques Brown, for a thought-provoking conversation about the evolving field of nature-based mental health. Laura shares her journey as the daughter of Brazilian immigrants, how her search for belonging led her into the mountains of Colorado and graduate training at Naropa University, and why she believes nature became the one place where she never had to hide who she was. Together, they explore the foundations of her work in decolonized ecotherapy, her framework of Land, Lineage, and Liberation, and how reconnecting with the natural world can help people heal trauma, restore belonging, and rediscover their relationship with the living world. The conversation also examines some of today's biggest challenges facing therapists and mental health professionals, including burnout, the mental health impacts of climate change and social instability, and what Laura describes as our current polycrisis. She explains why nature should be understood as a relationship rather than resource, discusses building sustainable private practices that support both clinicians and clients, and offers practical ways anyone can begin reconnecting with the outdoors. Whether you're a therapist interested in ecotherapy training, a mental health professional seeking a more holistic approach to healing, or someone curious about the intersection of psychology, nature, mindfulness, and environmental wellbeing, this episode offers a compelling vision for the future of nature-based therapy and mental health. This podcast is supported by the White Mountain Adventure Institute (WMAI.org), where Dr. Will White helps individuals, leaders, and organizations navigate growth, change, and life transitions through coaching, consulting, and retreats.   Guest information:  Laura's Website: https://naturezacoachingcollective.com/ *People can book a free discovery call if they are interested in her programs and ready for change  Instagram: naturezacoachingcollective  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedpractitionercollective *free resources, trainings and community of liberated therapists!