New Study: Prairie Exposure Reduces Anxiety
Our latest research demonstrates significant reductions in anxiety symptoms following regular exposure to prairie environments, with implications for nature-based interventions.
Read MoreAdvancing Mental Health Through Prairie Psychology
Since 1998, the Oklahoma Institute of Prairie Psychology has been at the forefront of psychological research and clinical services, specializing in the unique mental health needs of prairie communities and beyond.
About Our Institute
Discover our mission, values, and commitment to advancing psychological science and practice.
Pioneering Psychological Science Since 1998
The Oklahoma Institute of Prairie Psychology was founded in 1998 by Dr. Eleanor Redfern, a visionary psychologist who recognized the unique mental health needs of prairie communities. Our institute blends traditional psychological approaches with innovative methods tailored to the environmental and cultural contexts of the Great Plains region.
Today, we are a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, researchers, and clinicians dedicated to advancing mental health through evidence-based practice, groundbreaking research, and community outreach.
Our institute operates with the core belief that mental health is intrinsically connected to our environment, community, and cultural heritage. This "prairie psychology" approach has made us a leader in ecological and community-focused mental health care.
Accredited Programs
Fully accredited by the American Psychological Association and Oklahoma Board of Psychology.
Multidisciplinary Team
Over 40 specialists across various psychological disciplines and research areas.
Ecological Approach
Pioneering research on the relationship between environment and mental wellbeing.
Community Focus
Active outreach programs serving over 50 rural communities across Oklahoma.
Our Services
Comprehensive psychological services for individuals, families, and organizations.
Clinical Therapy
Individual, couples, and family therapy using evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care.
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Psychological Assessment
Comprehensive evaluations for diagnostic clarity, educational needs, forensic purposes, and treatment planning.
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Group Therapy
Specialized group programs for trauma recovery, anxiety management, mindfulness, and addiction support.
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Corporate Consulting
Workplace wellness programs, leadership coaching, and organizational psychology services for businesses.
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Telepsychology
Secure video therapy sessions for clients throughout Oklahoma, increasing access to mental health care.
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Community Outreach
Mental health workshops, school programs, and community seminars across rural Oklahoma.
Learn MoreResearch & Innovation
Advancing psychological science through cutting-edge research and innovation.
28+
Years of Research
150+
Published Studies
$4.2M
Research Funding (2025)
12
Active Research Projects
Our Research Focus Areas
Our researchers investigate the intersection of psychology, environment, and community, with particular emphasis on the unique challenges and strengths of prairie populations.
Ecopsychology & Wellbeing
Investigating how connection to natural environments, particularly prairie ecosystems, impacts mental health, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
Rural Mental Health
Studying the unique mental health challenges and protective factors in rural and agricultural communities across the Great Plains.
Trauma & Resilience
Developing and evaluating innovative interventions for trauma recovery, with focus on natural disaster survivors and first responders.
Community Psychology
Research on community-level interventions to promote mental health and prevent psychological disorders in prairie communities.
Child & Adolescent Development
Longitudinal studies on psychological development in rural settings and school-based mental health interventions.
Integrated Health Care
Research on integrating psychological services into primary care settings, particularly in underserved rural areas.
Our Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated professionals who guide our institute's mission and clinical work.
Dr. Eleanor Redfern
Founder & Executive Director
PhD in Clinical Psychology, specializing in ecological approaches to mental health. 35+ years of clinical experience.
Dr. Marcus Johnson
Clinical Director
PsyD in Clinical Psychology with expertise in trauma therapy and rural mental health service delivery.
Dr. Sarah Chen
Research Director
PhD in Experimental Psychology, leading our research initiatives in ecopsychology and community mental health.
Dr. Michael Blackwood
Director of Training
PhD in Counseling Psychology, overseeing our internship and postdoctoral training programs.
Upcoming Events & Workshops
Join us for educational events, workshops, and community programs throughout 2026.
15
Jan
Prairie Psychology Symposium 2026
Annual gathering of psychologists, researchers, and mental health professionals focusing on ecological approaches to mental health. Keynote by Dr. Lisa Monroe on "Nature-Based Interventions for Anxiety."
Register Now22
Feb
Mindfulness in Nature Workshop
Half-day experiential workshop combining mindfulness practices with time in natural prairie settings. Led by Dr. James Wilson, our specialist in ecotherapy approaches.
Learn More10
Mar
Rural Mental Health Conference
Two-day conference addressing the unique mental health challenges and innovations in rural communities across Oklahoma and neighboring states.
View Agenda05
Apr
Trauma-Informed Care Training
Professional development workshop for clinicians, educators, and community leaders on implementing trauma-informed approaches in various settings.
Register NowLatest Research & Insights
Stay updated with the latest findings from our institute and the field of prairie psychology.
Integrating Telepsychology in Rural Communities
How our institute is overcoming barriers to mental health care in remote areas through innovative telepsychology programs and community partnerships.
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Community Resilience After Natural Disasters
Findings from our five-year study on psychological recovery and community resilience following tornadoes and other natural disasters in Oklahoma.
Read MoreContact Us
Reach out to schedule an appointment, inquire about our services, or learn more about our research.
Our Location
1234 Prairie View Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone Number
Main: (405) 555-1234
Appointments: (405) 555-5678
Email Address
General: [email protected]
Appointments: [email protected]
Office Hours
Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed