Eco anxiety in an era of global boiling: How might ACT help us to respond effectively to eco emotions

Louise Shepherd
Clinical Psychologist

Climate change is arguably the biggest challenge our world currently faces.
Following the hottest European summer in over 100,000 years, the UN Secretary
General recently used the term “Global Boiling” to emphasise the seriousness of the
emergency. Gradually people are waking up to this threat and facing some
distressing emotions that are increasingly hard to hide from. The term eco anxiety is
commonly used but that is merely one of many distressing emotions to consider.
Anxiety in this context might be very rational and understandable, yet we want to
respond effectively. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a range of
tools to help ourselves and our clients to navigate these complex emotions skilfully.

This interactive online workshop is aimed at honing existing ACT skills to deal with
the wide range of eco emotions using a mix of practical tools and experiential
exercises. Louise will share some general observations about the impact the climate
emergency is having on our mental health and provide an opportunity for attendees
to reflect on how their own eco emotions show up at home and work. Developing
personal psychological flexibility relating to eco emotions will be discussed as well as
steps towards becoming more empowered and skilful in sitting with our clients.

We will discuss the dilemmas a therapist might face, e.g., speaking about the
science, making room for different values clients may hold and using personal
disclosure wisely.

Louise Shepherd is a clinical psychologist with 25 years’ experience
with individuals and groups in a variety of settings. Her clinical training
was based in traditional CBT with a strong background in treating
anxiety and mood disorders. For the last 15 years she has
predominantly used Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and
in 2012 she set up The Sydney ACT Centre which she ran until 2023.
Since 2014 she has also worked part time as an executive coach,
working with individuals and teams.
She has trained extensively in ACT both here and overseas. She is
recognized as an Association for Contextual Behavioral Science
(ACBS) Peer Reviewed ACT Trainer and member of the international
ACT Training Community.
In 2023, following a break from clinical practice Louise decided to
pivot in a new direction, focusing on behavioural change work for
the planet. She now works part time for an independent federal MP
leading a project to decarbonize an urban electorate and is writing
a book on imperfect climate action without the shame and blame
using her clinical knowledge and personal experiences.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lo...