2nd International Conference on Forest Therapy

His work has appeared in leading academic journals such as Science, Nature, Nature Communications, The Lancet Planetary Health, and The Lancet Psychiatry, underscoring the far-reaching impact of his research across multiple disciplines. Dr. Buckley’s research spans conservation biology, biodiversity, and ecosystem ecology, with a particular emphasis on the intersection of nature and human health. He has published over 40 studies on nature-based therapies, investigating how exposure to natural environments enhances mental well-being. His ongoing work continues to explore the vital connections between environmental science and public health, highlighting the role of nature in reducing stress, building mental resilience, and promoting overall well-being.

She was also a research associate with the US Forest Service Pacific NW Research Station collaborating on studies of social dimensions of urban forestry and ecosystems. Her research has spanned multiple disciplines and collaborations; publications include journals focusing on urban forestry, psychology, transportation, urban planning, marketing and public health. Dr. Wolf’s mission is to discover, understand and communicate human behaviour and benefits, as people experience nature in cities and towns. Kathy is committed to science translation and outreach and actively shares research at  www.naturewithin.info; and the Green Cities: Good Health project at: www.greenhealth.washington.edu

Dr. Bratman is Co-Director of the UW Center for Nature and Health and is a member of Cohort II of the JPB Environmental Health Fellowship through the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Amos is the author of “Your Guide to Forest Bathing: Experience the Healing Power of Nature,” which has been translated into 22 languages and serves as a foundational text in the field. His work has been featured in numerous publications including The New York Times, National Geographic, and Time Magazine.As a sought-after speaker and workshop leader, Amos has presented at conferences and retreats worldwide, inspiring audiences with his accessible approach to nature connection and ecological consciousness. He holds a BS in Organization Development and an MA in Counseling from the University of San Francisco.Through his organization, Amos has trained over 2,000 Forest Therapy Guides who now practice in more than 60 countries, creating a global movement for nature connection and environmental stewardship.

His work bridges traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary science, creating holistic methodologies for reconnecting humans with the natural world. He introduced the term “Relational Forest Therapy” and continues to develop innovative new directions that are opening the field of Forest Therapy to an expanded range of applications.

Dr. Abookire began her professional career as an electrical engineer in aviation systems design and brings a keen understanding of systems thinking and design to her work improving healthcare for everyone. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr.Abookire trained at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and practices Internal Medicine. She received a master’s degree from the Harvard School of Public Health and teaches nationally and internationally. Certified as a Forest Therapy Guide, Dr.Abookire offers nature-inspired individual coaching, group coaching, leadership development, training, and retreats to healthcare professionals. Her programs help professionals and patients by delivering tools for lifelong physical, mental, and cognitive wellbeing. Dr.Abookire has also developed a curriculum for Harvard Medical School residents that incorporates Forest Therapy into learning about healthcare systems and leadership. Her rich background and experience in system design influences all her work including supporting healthcare organizations looking for culture
transformation.

He currently co-leads FTHub’s NATURELAB, a European Union-funded research project with a €6 million grant, focusing on the design, implementation, and validation of nature-based therapies. Additionally, he co-leads PHorestAll, a European Union-funded research project with a €1 million grant, which explores the connection between forest health, biodiversity, and human well-being to identify “Healing Forests” and promote forests as nature-based solutions for global health and environmental challenges. Although both projects are funded by the European Union, they are being carried out in Europe, Asia, and America.

Dr. Lin has received several prestigious recognitions for his work. He is a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors, a distinction that highlights his contributions to innovation and applied research. In 2020, he was honored with the UM System President’s Award for Economic Development in recognition of his efforts to translate research into real-world applications that benefit both the economy and society, and in 2021, he received the Governor’s Award.

In his upcoming presentation, Dr. Lin will introduce various analytical techniques developed for analyzing phytoncides and other health-promoting molecules in forest therapy research.

Bernard is an activist/advocate Indigenous anthropologist. His professional contributions to the American Anthropological Association include: Core Member/Member of the Task Group on Language and Social Justice (since 2010), Minority seat representative on the AAA Executive Board (2013-2017), Ombudsperson (2018-2020), and President of the Society for Linguistic Anthropology (2021-2023). He is also current President of the Canadian Anthropology Society (CASCA). His language research and advocacy continue to be expressed through publications and professional conferences as well as community-based projects such as collaborative art installation pieces, keynote presentations, and language revitalization workshops.

on shinrin-yoku. From 2019, she has been appointed as one of the committee members of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. She has been actively involved in looking into the possibilities and potentials of shinrin-yoku and national forest policy.