Long-Term Outdoor Therapeutic Programs

Outdoor therapeutic programs combine some of the elements of wilderness programs in a very simple, low-tech, environment. While there is usually an academic program, sometimes, including vocational training, as well as family therapy and peer counseling, the emphasis here is on interdependence and self sufficiency in a structured, supervised setting far from the cosial and physical distractions and temptations of life at home. Students may live in cabins or wall tents and eat and bathe in separate locations from the sleeping quarters.

Mentorship by dedicated staff may be emphasized over therapy. These programs are generally ideal of the young person who does not thrive in traditional environments or whom blossom using experiental learning in an ongoing way.

Length of stay is typically one to two years.