Some of the misconceptions about wilderness therapy programs are:

• All programs are continuous hiking or trekking

  • Our wilderness program has a base camp model and treats the child in both group and individual therapy for weeks before they proceed to the hiking experience.  This model is superior because of the assessment period before hiking. so the staff has more information on the child to better care for them in the wilderness.
    

• The food is not balanced and nutritious

  • Base camp model programs have 3 balanced hot meals per day that are both nutritious and delicious

• Hygiene is not important

  • Self care, hygiene including clean clothes, daily washing or showers, teeth brushing, and hair care are mandatory

• Survival skills are the main factor

  • Concentrating on the issues that brought the child to an outdoor treatment program through therapy and experiential activities are more of a priority than learning to build a fire or go without hot food.

• Wilderness programs are punitive

  • A program that is licensed and accredited by JCAHO will not be punitive, but clinically treatment focused, nurturing and understanding.

• Wilderness programs do not have credentialed staff

  • Every program staff will have training, licensing and experience that interacts with your child.  Every child is assigned a licensed therapist to develop their treatment plan and program

• Medication treatment is not possible

  • Registered nurses are on staff and manage the prescribed medication

• There are many health risks

  • Medical care is of the utmost importance.  Hospitals, doctors’ offices, and dentists if necessary are close by if needed.  Every child has a physical exam and lab work to monitor health and determine if there are any risks.  We have a 100% safety record since opening in 1992.