Travel as mental health therapy

In October 2022, Argentine psychologist Javier Labourt was invited to participate in REMOTE Talks, an event organized by REMOTE Latin America, where he shared his perspective on the connection between travel and personal change. The talk took place during REMOTE Immersion Cafayate, a gathering that brought together travel industry leaders with the goal of exchanging ideas, building community, and reflecting on the impact of this sector.

The event was part of REMOTE’s initiatives, a platform that seeks to connect tourism professionals across Latin America and foster an ecosystem that promotes authentic and transformative travel experiences. Its purpose goes beyond showcasing destinations: it aims to highlight the human value behind every travel proposal, encouraging a sustainable, creative, and mindful approach. In this context, Labourt’s voice brought an innovative perspective—understanding travel not only as leisure, but also as a setting for psychological and emotional transformation.

During his talk, Labourt defined travel as “a journey through unknown territories.” With this metaphor, he explained how, by facing the unexpected, people can activate inner resources that often remain hidden in everyday life. Based on his years of study and practice, he emphasized that traveling has the powerful ability to shift perspectives, transform one’s relationship with fear, and strengthen self-esteem.

At a historical moment when mental health is at the center of both social and professional conversations, Labourt highlighted the importance of including travel within strategies for well-being. He explained that beyond rest or enjoyment, every travel experience is an opportunity to confront oneself, build self-confidence, and deepen relationships with others.

According to his approach, there are four therapeutic goals that travel can foster:

  • Encouraging self-knowledge, by stepping out of routine and seeing oneself in a new environment.
  • Strengthening self-esteem, by overcoming challenges and recognizing one’s adaptability.
  • Developing cognitive flexibility, the ability to adjust to changing contexts while maintaining emotional balance.
  • Cultivating empathy, through contact with different realities and cultures that broaden one’s worldview.

“When we travel, we are in fertile ground to plant the seed of personal change. Travel is the perfect stage to build and nurture human empathy,” he stated during the conference. He also addressed the professionals present with a powerful reminder: “What you do is not just planning itineraries or creating experiences; you are helping people enhance their mental health.”

This message particularly resonated within the REMOTE community, a network of tour operators, entrepreneurs, and project leaders committed to offering authentic travel experiences in Latin America. The organization’s philosophy closely aligns with Labourt’s vision: understanding travel as an opportunity for deep connection—not only with destinations, but also with oneself and with others.

Labourt’s career strengthens his proposal. He describes himself as a “creative psychologist passionate about exploring the relationship between travel and personal change.” He holds a degree in Psychology from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and a master’s degree in Psychology from Palo Alto University in California, USA. His academic training, combined with his passion for exploring the world, has allowed him to develop an original approach where travel becomes a means for self-exploration, resilience, and well-being.

The core message of his talk at REMOTE Immersion Cafayate can be summarized in a clear idea: travel is not only about physical movement, but also about internal transformation. Each experience outside one’s comfort zone creates the possibility of redefining personal boundaries, building confidence, and fostering authentic relationships.

Through proposals like Labourt’s, it becomes clear that tourism can go far beyond entertainment. When well designed and accompanied by reflection, it can become a powerful tool for human growth, mental health, and the development of a more empathetic society.

For more press content, including interviews, articles, and talks by Javier Labourt, visit the press section of his website here.