About PERL
The Parks & Ecotherapy Research Lab (PERL) (formerly "Parks Research Lab") is directed by Dorothy C. Ibes, PhD, under the Environment & Sustainability program at William & Mary, in Williamsburg, Virginia.
PERL's mission is to cultivate nature-connected communities that nurture mental health, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. We do this primarily by:
Conducting interdisciplinary, use-inspired research that enhances understanding of the connection between mental health and nature engagement;
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.
Inspiring and equipping the next generation of practitioners, researchers, and advocates in the field of greenspace and nature therapy.