Collisions in Nature: A Psychotherapeutic Integration of Wilderness

This thesis employs hermeneutic and heuristic methodologies to explore the function of nature connectivity in the development of authentic selfhood and identity through the clinical intervention of wilderness therapy. Eminent thinkers throughout American history have asserted that human relationship to the wilderness fosters psychological and spiritual development. The research draws on the work of prominent psychologists and others who have explored the psychological consequence of distancing from nature, including a persistent estrangement from one's authentic Self. Key concepts of Jungian depth psychology are provided as a theoretical platform to illuminate the limiting effects of focusing on the maintenance of one's persona rather than pursuing relationship to the Self. An account of the author's lived experiences in nature demonstrates how reconnecting with the wilderness can generate states of presence and surrender and catalyze advancement toward individuation.