In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Leigh Beck discusses the innovative approach of nature-informed harm reduction in the context of substance use disorder treatment. She explores the historical relationship between drugs and nature, the importance of mindfulness, and the therapeutic benefits of nature in healing and recovery. The discussion also delves into the racial and class implications of drug policy, emphasizing the need for access to nature as a resource for mental health and well-being. Dr. Beck provides practical advice for integrating nature into recovery practices and highlights the significance of understanding the broader context of harm reduction.

Guest Information

Guest Name: Leigh Beck, DSW, LCSW-C, CNIT

Bio: Dr. Beck is a talented micro and macro social worker with an expertise in drug use. She currently owns a counseling and consulting practice in Baltimore County, Maryland. Dr. Beck teaches public health professionals in the areas of substance use disorder treatment, harm reduction, the war on drugs, and racial equity. Her doctorate focused on the political determinants of the opioid crisis and her newest training presents Nature Informed Harm Reduction. In addition to her counseling and consulting practice, Dr. Beck is co-president of the international solidarity organization U.S.-El Salvador Sister Cities. She also leads Beckys Anonymous, a mutual aid organization for white women who want to end white supremacy.

As part of her certification program at the Center for Nature-Informed Therapy, Dr. Beck developed the Nature Informed Harm Reduction training to explore innovative ways of improving the lives of people experiencing drug-related harm. The training examines the historical relationship between drugs, nature, and human development; introduces nature informed interventions for addressing drug-related harm; and analyzes the impact of the War on Drugs on climate justice. In addition to sharing this work at the Center for Nature Informed Therapy and Boston College School of Social Work, Dr. Beck had the honor of presenting at the 2025 International Harm Reduction Conference in Bogotá, Colombia.

Website: dr-leigh.com

Instagram: @dr.leighbeck

Linkedin: Leigh Beck, DSW, LCSW-C, CNIT

Takaways

1. Nature can be a powerful tool in harm reduction.
2. Harm reduction is a broader umbrella that includes recovery.
3. The historical relationship between drugs and nature is significant.
4. Drug use has been part of human experience for thousands of years.
5. Nature-informed therapy can help reduce anxiety and depression.
6. Mindfulness practices can be integrated into substance use.
7. Nature can hold space for grief and healing.
8. Access to nature is crucial for mental health.
9. The war on drugs has racial and class implications.