What do we mean by wilderness rehab or therapy?
Wilderness therapy alcohol treatment is a subset of a popular group of therapies that are referred to as adventure-based. It is extremely popular in the field of addiction treatment and recovery. The concept is based on the utilization of outdoor expeditions and wilderness environments that serve as therapeutic intervention practices. Typically, these programs employ a broad range of approaches, models, and programs during the therapeutic process.
Some of these therapies grew out of the Outward Bound mentality regarding exploring wilderness areas while others stemmed from the survivalist approach employed in the great outdoors. The goal of both philosophies is to carefully guide the individual into a better sense of self-respect and self-reliance.
Wilderness therapy was originally pioneered by two Brigham Young University professors named Ezekiel C. Sanchez and Larry D. Olsen. They were assisted by Steven Bacon and Nelson Chase of the Colorado Outward Bound School as well as Rocky Kimball of the Santa Fe Mountain Center.
Function and purpose
The primary target audience of Wilderness therapy is children and teens aged 11 through 17 although young adults and some middle-aged individuals have participated in this activity. It has been proven to be effective as a therapy in the treatment of substance abuse and addiction but is also effective for treating numerous disorders including:
- ADD / ADHD
- aggression / defiance
- behavioral disorders
- bi-polar disorder
- depression
- educational difficulties
- other mental health issues
Once the Wilderness therapy alcohol treatment program was completed, research studies and other surveys that were conducted revealed that the majority of the teens and younger adults that participated in the activity found the experience to be beneficial, enjoyable, and positive. Additionally, they felt that they had gained a greater sense of self-reliance, patience, maturity, independence, and assertiveness. However, there is some speculation as to how long the positive changes will actually last. Most of these outdoor activities assist in building self confidence, enhance skills and become responsible.
Other studies that were conducted regarding the outcome of Wilderness therapy showed that behavioral improvement over a 12 month period was not uncommon once they had completed the program. Upon completion, the individual is allowed to return home or they have a few choices. For instance, they can enter an in-patient rehab program, a therapeutic boarding school, or another type of young adult program so that they can continue towards a successful recovery.
Many people have started looking for alternate means to end addictions. If you would like more information regarding the Wilderness therapy programs that we list, please contact our referral site – Treatment 4 Alcohol – by calling the toll-free phone number listed above.