ABSTRACT
Guided by an ecological–humanistic and existential–humanistic perspective, we explored EcoWellness as a form of nature-based self-care in counselor education by examining its associations with demographic characteristics, patterns of nature use, and self-reported barriers among 193 students and faculty from CACREP-accredited counseling programs. Using the EcoWellness Inventory (EI-15), the findings revealed positive correlations between nature access, caring for nature, and social connectedness. Qualitative analysis highlights diverse ways individuals engage with nature for self-care, as well as barriers—such as time constraints and the COVID-19 pandemic—that limit access. The findings underscore the importance of integrating EcoWellness into counselor education curricula to foster self-care. Addressing systemic barriers and promoting accessible, meaningful nature-based activities within training programs holds promise for enhancing the holistic wellness of both students and faculty, reinforcing the human–nature connection as a vital component of counselor development.