Understanding the Unique Challenges of Conservation and Environmental Fields: A Guide for Counselors

Conservationists and environmental professionals face unique challenges that significantly impact their mental health and well-being. As counselors, it is crucial to understand these challenges to provide effective support. This article highlights key issues and considerations for working with clients in these fields.

Unclear Expectations and Priorities

One of the biggest issues in conservation and environmental work is the lack of clear priorities and expectations. Everything is deemed a priority, which means nothing is truly prioritized. This ambiguity creates immense stress and confusion among professionals. They often feel overwhelmed, unable to meet unrealistic expectations, and constantly pressured to do more with less.

Counselors can help by guiding clients to set realistic goals and prioritize their tasks effectively. Encouraging clients to ask for clarification of expectations and priorities from authority figures in a way that recognizes the impact of not having them, not just for the individual but for everyone on the team. It might help to share your recognition that this is a systemic issue in conservation can provide clients with relief, knowing they are not alone in their struggles. Normalize any feelings around struggle since they are appropriate responses to lack of clarity.

Public Attack and Little Protection

Conservationists frequently face public criticism and attacks, often with little to no protection. Most often there are not rules of engagement and the public can attack at will. This can be incredibly demoralizing and stressful. While efforts are being made to establish behavior agreements to protect them, these measures take time to implement.

In the meantime, it is essential to process these stressful events through after-action reports. Suggest clients set aside time after such events to process by doing a grounding or mindfulness practice to reset the nervous system. Then simply reflecting on what happened through journaling, followed by claiming and celebrating what went well. Suggest the client focus only one commitment to improvement for the next time. Suggest, when possible, that clients plan time off immediately following these events, especially if they are seasonal. Counselors can support clients by validating their experiences and helping them develop coping strategies. Emphasizing the importance of self-care and encouraging them to take breaks can prevent burnout and promote long-term resilience.

Front Line of Environmental Crises

Working on the front lines of environmental crises, such as coral bleaching, endangered species, and invasive species, often feels like a hopeless endeavor. The lack of visible progress and solutions can lead to feelings of despair and futility.

Counselors should acknowledge these as normal feelings and provide a safe space for clients to express their emotions. It is important to help them find meaning and purpose in their work, even when progress seems slow. Encouraging small, incremental wins and celebrating successes, no matter how minor, can boost morale and motivation.

Culture of Emotional Exclusion and Toughening Up

The culture within many conservation organizations often promotes emotional exclusion and a “toughen up” mentality. This stifles creativity and emotional expression, leading to a sense of isolation. One participant in a workshop even remarked, “Conservation kills creativity.”

Counselors can help by fostering an environment where emotional expression is encouraged and valued. Teaching clients the importance of emotional inclusion and creativity in problem-solving can lead to more innovative solutions and a healthier workplace culture. Have emotion word lists and wheels ready to aid in ease of expression.

The Role of Counselors

Counselors play a crucial role in discerning what challenges are systemic and what are individual issues. Understanding that many stressors are inherent in the system can provide clients with a sense of relief. Building supportive networks and encouraging clients to share their experiences can mitigate feelings of isolation.

Incorporating nature into therapy can also be beneficial. Walk-and-talk sessions and other outdoor therapies can help clients reconnect with the natural world they work so hard to protect. However, it is important to choose locations carefully to avoid triggering negative emotions (like places covered with invasive species) and to practice ethical considerations like leaving no trace and ensuring privacy.

Conclusion

I only covered a few of the top challenges for conservationists here. Understanding a few of the unique challenges faced by conservationists is essential for providing effective support. By addressing unclear priorities, public attacks, emotional exclusion, and the emotional toll of environmental crises, counselors can help clients navigate both individual and systemic issues. Incorporating nature into therapy and fostering supportive networks can further enhance their well-being. Ultimately, recognizing these challenges and providing tailored support can make a significant difference in the lives of those dedicated to conserving our planet.

My partners and I offer workshops for counselors who want to know more about helping conservation clients and/or understanding and normalizing eco-emotions. Please reach out with questions or to book one of the workshops for your group.

In Other News

• Completed a Navigating Highly Public Challenges & Fostering Supportive Communities in Conservation Leadership workshop that was very well received.
• Upcoming customized workshop: Navigating Coral Grief: A Resilience Workshop for Front Line Conservationists
• These two new workshops are available for your group!