About PERL

The Parks & Ecotherapy Research Lab (PERL) (formerly "Parks Research Lab") is directed by Dr. Dorothy Ibes, under the Environment & Sustainability program at William & Mary, in Williamsburg, Virginia.  

PERL's mission is to cultivate nature-connected communities that foster mental health, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. We do this primarily by:

1. Conducting interdisciplinary, use-inspired research that enhances understanding of the connection between mental health and nature engagement;

2. Applying current research to inclusive campus outreach and programming that supports diverse students in: 

-- Spending more time engaging with nature, both indoors and out, and

-- Developing a meaningful relationship with the natural world.

3. Inspiring and equipping the next generation of practitioners, researchers, and advocates in the field of greenspace and nature therapy.