Exploring the Role of Social Work in Addressing Climate Change, Environmental Justice, and Enhancing Provider Resilience

Background and Purpose
As climate change intensifies, social workers are increasingly called upon to address the interconnected challenges of environmental justice and mental health. Marginalized communities disproportionately bear the impacts of environmental degradation, and social workers supporting these populations often face high levels of stress, secondary trauma, and burnout—especially when working in crisis zones or with displaced individuals. Research shows that chronic trauma exposure, workforce shortages, and disrupted treatment systems contribute to extreme burnout among providers. While avoidant coping strategies exacerbate burnout, problem-focused strategies offer protective benefits. This presentation explores eco-therapy as a promising, nature-based intervention to reduce burnout and promote resilience among social workers operating in high-stress environments.

Methods
This poster presentation synthesizes existing research on eco-therapy and occupational burnout, drawing from studies in environmental psychology and trauma-informed care. Through a combination of literature review, case study analysis, and experiential learning, the presentation demonstrates how eco-therapy can serve as both a preventive and restorative strategy for practitioners. Case examples highlight the use of eco-therapy with climate-displaced populations and providers in crisis response roles. Experiential components, including grounding techniques and guided nature-based reflections, are integrated to model practical applications of eco-therapy.

Results
Findings indicate that eco-therapy can significantly reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and foster a sense of connection and meaning—key factors in combating burnout. Case studies from authors' research illustrate successful integration of eco-therapeutic practices into community, clinical, and educational settings, resulting in improved well-being and resilience among social workers. Participants in eco-therapy interventions report enhanced coping abilities, greater job satisfaction, and increased engagement in both professional and environmental justice efforts.

Conclusions and Implications
Eco-therapy offers a timely and effective intervention for supporting the mental health and sustainability of the social work workforce. By aligning personal resilience strategies with environmental justice values, eco-therapy bridges individual well-being and systemic change. This presentation equips attendees with practical tools to incorporate eco-therapy into clinical, educational, and community practice settings. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the presentation promotes sustainable mental health care practices that benefit both practitioners and the communities they serve. As the climate crisis deepens, integrating eco-therapeutic strategies will be essential to maintaining a resilient and responsive social work profession.