What Is Wilderness Therapy?

Wilderness therapy, adventure therapy, nature-based therapy, or outdoor behavioral healthcare are just a few names for outdoor alternative treatment options. This type of treatment is typically used for adolescents or young-adults who are struggling with substance abuse, addiction, behavioral, mental, or emotional troubles.

Wilderness therapy comes in several forms: full-time overnight programs and day programs. Wilderness therapy is meant after other types of home treatment have been tried with no success.

In a nature-based alternative type of treatment, a client will receive not only counseling with licensed therapists but also receive nature-based therapy where they learn skills focusing on learning to take care of themselves while becoming part of a team/group. The programs are not easy for someone who is struggling. Clients’ technology is completely removed, which can make these programs even tougher. Physically a client may be in the wilderness for days at a time during this type of program. Guides and therapists are with them supporting and assisting them through their journey. This type of treatment teaches natural positive and negative consequences based on choices each individual makes. Thus teaching the individual to become contributing members of society while redirecting their internal thought process, emotions, and behaviors.

Nature-based programs have statistically proven to empower individuals for success.