From the 14th to the 16th of November, we hosted the Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) of our project in Espinho, Portugal. Over these three enlightening days, participants from Germany, Greece, Denmark, Spain, and Portugal immersed themselves in the world of ecotherapy, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience while getting acquainted with the project’s objectives and materials firsthand.
The training commenced with an introduction to ecotherapy on the first day, where participants delved into its benefits, explored examples, and discussed best practices across Europe. Engaging debates ensued, focusing on ecotherapy’s current role in education, the process of change, and the optimal environments for its implementation.
Day two began with a deep dive into considerations for working with individuals facing substance use disorders. Participants examined psychological aspects and navigated through risks and barriers when integrating ecotherapy. Following this session, participants engaged with and tested project-developed materials: the toolkit, currently accessible on the project website (link), and the upcoming MOOC.
Later in the day, participants visited the Convívios Fraternos Social Centre, accompanied by the centre’s psychologists, to gain insight into their work and the rehabilitation process for individuals with substance use issues. The day concluded with a visit to a center for equine therapy, offering a glimpse into an emerging ecotherapy project involving horses.
The final day of training allowed participants to practice various individual and collective ecotherapy activities, reflecting on their applicability in their respective contexts upon returning home. As the training concluded, participants departed with enriched experiences and knowledge, poised to integrate ecotherapy practices into their future endeavors with newfound confidence.
