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Ari C. Bonagofski, Ph.D., is a 2025 graduate of the Ph.D. Program in Couple and Family Therapy at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • Kevin Lyness, PhD, Chairperson
  • Janice A. Williams, PhD, Committee Member
  • Bryson Greaves, PhD, Committee Member

Dr. Ari Bonagnofski in Antioch University doctoral regalia standing in between two members of her dissertation committee on gradaution day.

From left to right: Kristi Harrison, PhD; Ari Bonagofsky, Phd: Kevin Lyness, PhD

Keywords

eco-informed, clinical supervision, climate change, systemic therapy

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This dissertation examined what constitutes eco-informed clinical supervision, identified its essential components, described its practical implementation, and analyzed how it expands systemic practice. The lack of attention climate- and nature-related issues receive in the couple and family therapy field coupled with the climate crisis and disconnection from nature create a gap in training and care for those experiencing ecological distress. Clinical supervision is one method of addressing this issue by teaching and developing competence working with climate- and nature-related issues. Using a modified three-part Delphi methodology, this study included two surveys followed by an optional individual interview. Panelists agreed on what eco-informed supervision is and how it relates to traditional supervision. Based on panelist perspectives, eco-informed supervision was described as a more complete practice of systemic supervision and can be considered a supplement to existing models of supervision. Implications for supervision, practical recommendations, and future directions for research are discussed. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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ORCID ID: 0000-0001-9636-9993

Luke and Ari on Dr. Bonagnofski's graduation day, August 2025

Luke and Ari

Bio:

Ari Bonagofski, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and ecotherapist based in Bellingham, Washington. She earned her PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Antioch University New England and her Master’s degree in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling from George Fox University. Dr. Bonagofski’s research and clinical work focus on fostering connection to the natural world through ecotherapy and supporting individuals and partners in navigating ecological distress within the context of the current polycrisis. She maintains a private practice in Bellingham and is committed to continuing her work in teaching, supervision, and research that advances social and environmental justice.

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