Afleveringen
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In this Will speaks with Derek Daley, the incoming president of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), about the transformative implications of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act (SICAA) for outdoor behavioral health. This federal legislation focuses on increasing oversight, transparency, and accountability within youth treatment programs, aiming to establish national standards for ethical care and safety. Daley explains that the next two years will involve data collection and evaluation to guide future regulations, with NATSAP actively engaging policymakers to ensure the fieldâs expertise and perspective shape these developments. He underscores the importance of trauma-informed care and community-based alternatives while advocating to preserve wilderness therapy as a vital option for families seeking outdoor behavioral healthcare.
Daley also sheds light on the recent merger of the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Council (OBH) Council with NATSAP, a decision driven by declining OBH membership and the closure of numeorus programs. This merger represents a strategic shift, enabling OBHâs mission to thrive within NATSAP's broader organizational structure. Daley highlights OBHâs legacy as a trailblazer in accreditation standards, safety data collection, and outcome tracking, which have influenced the entire field. With SICAA emphasizing data transparency and ethical practices, this partnership positions outdoor behavioral health programs to adapt and lead amid increasing federal oversight. Daley invites listeners to engage with these changes by attending the upcoming NATSAP conference and supporting initiatives that ensure the future of outdoor-based mental health care.
Here is a link to the SICAA act: https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/s1351/BILLS-118s1351es.pdf
Stories from the Field is sponsored by White Mountain Adventure Institute (wmai.org).
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In this episode Will talks with John Tobias, founder of Red Cedar Transitions. John shares his journey from working at Boulder Outdoor Survival School to Aspen Achievement Academy and other wilderness therapy programs to establishing Red Cedar Transitions in Asheville, North Carolina. He discusses the evolution of his career, blending wilderness therapy, coaching, and psychotherapy, and highlights the flexibility and individualized approach of Red Cedarâs community-based model. John emphasizes the importance of supporting young adults as they navigate transitions, providing them with tools for independence while staying connected to the real world.
The conversation explores the changing landscape of wilderness therapy, including the decline of traditional programs and the rise of alternative models like Red Cedar that cater to modern young adults' needs. John also reflects on the power of nature-based therapy and its potential to adapt and thrive despite industry challenges. With a focus on action-oriented coaching and the integration of therapeutic principles, John shares his vision for the future, emphasizing flexibility and responsiveness to the rapidly evolving needs of young people.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode Will talks with John Karren, co-founder of Elements Programs. John reflects on how Elements has evolved over its 17-year history, moving from a strictly nomadic wilderness model to more flexible, tailored programs, including a new âEclipseâ option designed for neurodiverse adolescents. He explains the behind-the-scenes decisions that led them to integrate adventure activities, introduce heated tents, and adopt family-centric approaches, all while maintaining a commitment to the transformative power of the outdoors. John also discusses the critical role of collaboration with partners and clinical team members in shaping Elementsâ ongoing adaptations, from digital media overuse interventions to specialized programming for different client profiles.
Beyond the Elements model, John and Will touch on broader challenges facing the outdoor behavioral healthcare field, particularly the recent industry contractions and heightened public scrutiny. John shares how being a small, owner-operated program with dedicated clinical professionals has enabled Elements to stay resilient. He speaks passionately about the need to eliminate outdated practices, embrace ethical oversight, and remain agile in responding to ever-changing mental health needs. This conversation offers a candid look at how one wilderness therapy program continues to innovate while retaining a deep respect for the outdoors as a powerful catalyst for growth and healing.
Other podcast episodes related to Elements mentioned in this episode:
Episode 44: Karen Scrafford, Co-founder of Elements Wilderness Therapy
Episode 17: Lynn Smith, Co-founder of Elements Wilderness Program
98: Vicenzo Narciso, Undergraduate Student at San Diego Mesa College and Former Wilderness Therapy Student
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In this special episode Will takes a deep dive into the Netflix documentary Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare, which explores the infamous Challenger Foundationâa adolescent wilderness therapy program in the late 1980s that became a cautionary tale of abuse and unethical practices. Will reflects on the emotional impact of the film, the human cost of profit-driven models, and the ripple effects of Challengerâs abusive culture on the broader field of wilderness therapy. Drawing on his extensive research and writings, he examines how the program's legacy continues to shape the evolution of ethical standards and regulatory oversight in outdoor behavioral healthcare.
The episode also features insights from undergraduate students in Willâs Wilderness Therapy class at Plymouth State University. These students share their fresh perspectives on the documentary and discuss the broader complexities of wilderness therapy, including their views on consent, ethical practices, and the role of outdoor experiences in healing. Their reflections, shaped by personal and professional experiences, underscore the importance of learning from the past to create safer and more effective programs today. Together, Will and his students offer a nuanced exploration of the challenges and potential of wilderness therapy as a tool for mental health treatment.
Will's doctoral dissertation is free on Proquest: Stories from the Elders: Chronicles and Narratives from the Early Years of Wilderness Therapy.
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In this episode Will reconnects with Mod Barefoot Maves, who last appeared on the podcast just before the pandemic in February 2020. Mod shares the remarkable evolution of the Vermont-based program formerly known as True North Wilderness, which recently changed its name to True North Evolution. She discusses the thoughtful, incremental shift away from a nomadic wilderness therapy to a fully residential model, as well as the decision to focus solely on serving young adults rather than adolescents. Mod explains how this evolution reflects the changing needs and preferences of their clients, who increasingly seek in-depth, community-oriented experiences and meaningful engagement with the world around them.
Beyond adapting their program structure, True North Evolution has also embraced new modalities that balance outdoor engagement with dynamic residential offerings. Mod highlights the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and long-term relationships with clients, including the role of coaching and the integration of technology in carefully managed ways. Throughout the conversation, she underscores the importance of listening to feedbackâboth from young adults and the broader fieldâwhile maintaining a strong ethical foundation. This episode offers valuable insights into how a pioneering program is reimagining the future of outdoor behavioral healthcare.
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In this episode Will reconnects with Andrew Taylor, founder of Pure Life Adventure in Costa Rica and the podcast's very first guest in 2018. Andrew shares the significant developments at Pure Life over the past six years, including how the COVID-19 pandemic forced a one-year suspension of operations due to Costa Rica closing its borders. This pause led to transformative changes such as enhanced pre-program communication with students, the introduction of academic credits, and the expansion to include adolescent groups. Andrew emphasizes the importance of informed consent and willingness among participants, noting that these shifts have strengthened the program's impact on young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges.
Andrew also discusses the inception of Octagon Mentoring, a coaching and mentoring initiative he started during the pandemic to continue supporting young adults. Octagon Mentoring offers services ranging from life coaching to an independent living facility in Salt Lake City, Utah. The conversation delves into his new book, "Launch: A Guide to Getting Unstuck, Navigating Life, and Thriving," which encapsulates his curriculum designed to help individuals overcome mental blocks and shift their mindsets. Andrew reflects on the evolving landscape of wilderness and adventure therapy, addressing the industry's recent contractions and expressing optimism for its future. He highlights the enduring healing power of nature and the necessity of adapting to meet the changing needs of young people and their families.
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In this episode Will engages in a profound conversation with Danny Frazer, co-founder of the former Open Sky Wilderness Therapy program and founder of Gain the Ridge Consulting. Danny shares his journey into the field of wilderness therapy, beginning as an intern at Galena Ridge and progressing to roles at Aspen Achievement Academy. He reflects on the audacious vision that led to the founding of Open Sky in 2006, highlighting how they integrated innovative practices like yoga, meditation, naturopathic medicine, and extensive family involvementâelements that were revolutionary at the time. Danny discusses his leadership roles, including serving as the chair of the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Council, where he emphasized collaboration and ethical practices to advance the field.
The conversation delves into the challenging decision to close Open Sky in early 2024 after 18 years of operation. Danny candidly examines the multifaceted reasons behind the closure, including negative media portrayals of wilderness therapy, societal shifts in parenting styles, increased competition from insurance-covered programs, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares his personal process of grief and reflection, which led to the creation of Gain the Ridge Consulting. Through his new venture, Danny aims to support leaders and organizations in behavioral healthcare by offering coaching and consulting services that focus on leadership development, risk management, and program evolution. He expresses optimism for the future of wilderness therapy, emphasizing the enduring power of nature in healing and personal growth.
To listen an episode about the closure of Open Sky check out episode 221-The Closure of Open Sky: Is this the "Winter" of Wilderness Therapy?
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In this episode Will reconnects with Nichol Ernst, CEO of Summit Achievement, an adolsecent residential treatment program in Maine. Nichol shares his journey from starting as a field staff member 21 years ago to leading the organization today. They delve into how Summit Achievement has evolved since its founding in 1996, discussing the core principles that have remained steadfastâthe transformative power of nature, evidence-based clinical work, a strong focus on academics, and the critical involvement of family in the therapeutic process. Nichol highlights how the program has adapted to meet the changing needs of adolescents and their families, integrating technological advancements for safety, becoming a fully accredited school capable of awarding academic credits, and addressing the increasing complexity of mental health issues among youth.
The conversation also addresses the broader challenges and criticisms faced by the wilderness therapy field. Nichol discusses Summit Achievement's commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and continual improvement through state licensure, national accreditations, and the publication of outcome data demonstrating significant reductions in depression and anxiety among participants. As mental health needs continue to rise, Summit Achievement remains dedicated to providing effective, individualized treatment without compromising its foundational values. This insightful discussion offers listeners a deeper understanding of how one organization navigates the complexities of mental health care while harnessing the healing power of the outdoors.
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In the milestone 250th episode, Will reconnects with Matt Nannis, founder of PIVOTPoint, an experiential adventure program based in Western North Carolina. Since their last conversation in 2022, PIVOTPoint has evolved significantly, shifting its focus from working primarily with individuals in recovery to providing preventive and therapeutic services for youth within the local community. Matt discusses how the organization has integrated its programs into schools, offering after-school initiatives for high school and middle school students that emphasize self-awareness, self-regulation, and pro-social behaviors through outdoor activities like hiking, paddleboarding, and rock climbing.
The episode takes a profound turn as Matt shares PIVOTPointâs essential role in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of Western North Carolina. Faced with widespread destruction, loss of utilities, and a community in crisis, Pivot Point adapted swiftly to provide immediate mental health support and relief services. Matt delves into the challenges of mobilizing resources, coordinating with other organizations, and addressing his own emotional journey during this demanding time. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, PIVOTPointâs commitment to serving the community highlighted the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the therapeutic power of connection during times of crisis.
To donate to PIVOTpoint check out their website at https://pivotpointwnc.org/.
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In this episode Will reconnects with Bill Brown, co-founder of Confluence Behavioral Health in Vermont. Since their last conversation in 2019, Confluence has evolved significantly to meet the changing needs of young adults. Bill discusses how today's youth are internalizing their struggles more than ever, shifting from outward expressions of distress to feelings of self-hatred and isolation. Recognizing this change, Confluence adapted its wilderness therapy model by integrating nightly returns to their residential property, increasing accessibility through insurance coverage, and expanding services with Arete Transitions and a new Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Burlington.
Bill emphasizes the importance of evolving treatment approaches to address the current mental health crisis among young adults. He notes that while the need for mental health services has risen, options have narrowed due to societal shifts and decreased parental willingness to engage in more challenging therapeutic interventions. Through innovative programs and a focus on integrating adventure therapy with clinical practices, Confluence aims to provide effective support tailored to the unique challenges faced by today's youth.
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In this episode Will reconnects with Derek Daley, co-founder of Legacy Outdoor Adventures and a seasoned professional with over 25 years in wilderness therapy. Derek shares how Legacy has evolved since its inception in 2012, focusing on adults aged 18 to 35. He discusses their unique approach of combining epic adventure therapyâsuch as canyoneering, rock climbing, and skiing in southern Utahâwith strong clinical practices to create meaningful and effective treatment experiences and a hybrid model of residential treatment and outdoor adventures. Derek highlights the importance of engaging clients who choose to participate willingly, which enhances the therapeutic process and outcomes.
The conversation delves into the broader changes and challenges within the wilderness therapy field, including increased scrutiny, the impact of technology and screen time on young adults, and the closure of several programs. Derek addresses criticisms of wilderness therapy by advocating for greater transparency, accountability, and the need to demonstrate measurable outcomes. He emphasizes that despite challenges, wilderness therapy remains one of the most compassionate and effective forms of treatment. Derek also shares his passion for engaging the next generation of mental health professionals through initiatives like the upcoming 2025 HIP (Healing in Progress) Tour to college campuses.
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In the opening episode of Season 21, host Will White delves into the significant transformations occurring within the wilderness therapy field for adolescents and young adults, paralleling them with the impacts of climate change on our environment. He reflects on the "Great Collapse" between 2007 and 2010, when the number of wilderness therapy programs dramatically decreased due to economic pressures from the Great Recession. Drawing striking parallels to recent events, Will discusses how the closure of seven wilderness therapy programs in the last two years mirrors that earlier contraction, signaling a new period of challenge and change in the field. He also explores how these challenges echo those faced by longstanding outdoor organizations like the Boy Scouts of America, NOLS, and Outward Bound, highlighting how declining enrollments, controversies and technology have impacted the broader outdoor experiential field.
Despite challenges like increased operational risks, changing market demands, and heightened public scrutiny, some programs have demonstrated remarkable resilience and continue to adapt to the evolving landscape. Will announces that this season will feature interviews with leaders from enduring programs to explore how they've navigated these challenges and what they envision for the future of outdoor behavioral healthcare. Emphasizing the importance of stepping away from screens and engaging with the real world, he encourages listeners to embrace the outdoors as a powerful platform for mental health treatment. The episode sets the stage for a season focused on adaptation, resilience, and the ongoing impact of wilderness therapy on young lives.
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In this episode Will sits down with Dr. Alison LaFollette, the Clinical Director of Mountain Valley Treatment Center. Alison shares her journey from conducting neuropsychological evaluations in several of Utah's wilderness therapy programs to leading the clinical team at Mountain Valley. She discusses the integration of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy with outdoor experiential activities at Mountain Valley, highlighting how natural settings like the Zen Garden, farm, outdoor climbing wall and hiking trails enhance therapeutic outcomes for adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety and OCD. The conversation delves into the rising levels of social anxiety among young people, the impact of the pandemic on mental health, and the importance of family involvement in treatment.
Alison also explores the similarities between ERP and adventure therapy, emphasizing the value of taking committed action in accordance with one's values. She reflects on the challenges facing behavioral healthcare organizations, including staff burnout and program sustainability, offering insights into how Mountain Valley addresses these issues. The episode concludes with Alison sharing how she utilizes the outdoors for her own mental well-being and her excitement about future innovations at Mountain Valley, such as expanding experiential components and fostering team synergy.
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In this episode Will talks with Hayley Caddes, co-founder of Not Therapy Coaching, about her powerful personal journey through wilderness therapy and an all-girls therapeutic boarding school. Hayley shares how these experiences inspired her to help others who have gone through treatment, creating a unique coaching model that fills the gap between traditional therapy and the support needed to thrive in everyday life. She discusses how peer mentorship, structure, and community play pivotal roles in recovery and growth after treatment.
Hayley also addresses the controversies surrounding wilderness therapy and the closures of the programs she attended, taking a business-minded approach to understanding the challenges faced by the industry. She reflects on how successful programs are, those that not only offer quality care but also adapt to the evolving mental health landscape. From selling her first startup, Chill Pill, to running Not Therapy Coaching, Hayleyâs story is one of empowerment, recovery, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Tune in to learn how wilderness therapy shaped her path and how she is paying it forward to others on their mental health journeys.
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In this powerful episode Will speaks with JD and his mother, Amber, as they recount their powerful journey through wilderness therapy. JD opens up about the struggles that led him down a dangerous path of substance abuse, starting as a teen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Amber shares the difficult decision to send JD to a wilderness therapy program in Utah, and how the experience not only saved his life but transformed their family. Together, they discuss the challenging process of recovery, manipulation, and ultimately the breakthrough that wilderness therapy provided.
As September is National Recovery Month, this episode highlights the healing potential of wilderness therapy for addiction and mental health recovery. JD and Amber's story is a testament to the life-changing impact of being in nature, far from the destructive influences of modern life. Their conversation touches on the urgent need for support, as many wilderness therapy programs are closing despite their success in helping young people recover from addiction.
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In this deeply moving episode Will sits down with Melissa and Graham Squier, founders of the Harlan Serenity Foundation. This foundation, created in memory of their late son, Chris Squier, supports young people struggling with addiction by providing access to wilderness therapy programs. The interview takes a poignant turn when Will realizes he had interviewed Chris back in 2020, unaware that Chris would later lose his battle with addiction. This realization, combined with the ongoing closures of critical wilderness therapy programs, makes for an emotional conversation about the profound impact of wilderness therapy on those struggling with addiction.
Melissa and Graham share Chrisâs journeyâfrom his initial struggles with addiction to finding sobriety through wilderness therapy, and later becoming a field guide to help others on the same path. They discuss the creation of the Harlan Serenity Foundation, its mission, and the importance of keeping wilderness therapy programs alive in a time when they are needed more than ever. This episode is a testament to the healing power of nature and the enduring legacy of those who have benefited from it.
Link to the Harlan Serenity Foundation.
Episode with Chris Squire which was released in September of 2020.
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In this episode Will talks with Dr. Denise Mitten, a pioneering figure in outdoor education, adventure, and wilderness therapy. Denise shares her journey from her early days in the 1970s, overcoming gender barriers in a male-dominated field, to co-founding the influential Woodswomen organization, which focused on emotional safety and support in outdoor programs. Throughout the conversation, Denise discusses the evolution of outdoor therapy emphasizing the importance of creating safe, relational environments rather than relying on stress-based models. Her insights into the ethics of care, the role of women in the field, and the shift towards eco-psychology offer listeners a profound understanding of how wilderness experiences can foster deep personal growth and healing.
Denise also reflects on the importance of relational connection in outdoor programs, critiquing the traditional "power over" models often seen in wilderness therapy. She advocates for a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to risk-taking, where the focus is on maintaining comfort and regulation rather than pushing participants beyond their limits. Her teachings challenge the field to embrace inclusivity, sustainability, and a deeper connection with nature, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of outdoor therapy and education.
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In this episode Will talks with Sheldon Nelson, founder of Crossroads Discovery and a veteran of the wilderness therapy field. Sheldon discusses the inspiration behind Crossroads Discovery, a program that bridges the gap between traditional wilderness therapy and ongoing support for adolescents and their families. He highlights the unique approach of offering short-term wilderness immersion experiences that emphasize not only survival skills but also personal growth and self-discovery. Sheldon shares how the program evolved to meet the needs of families seeking continued guidance after their children completed the wilderness programs, integrating in-home coaching and nature-based activities into their everyday lives.
Sheldon also reflects on his extensive career, including his years at Anasazi Foundation, one of the oldest wilderness therapy programs for adolescents in the country. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on a change of heart over mere behavior modification and how this philosophy underpins the work at Crossroads Discovery. The episode offers a deep dive into the current state of wilderness therapy, its challenges, and its potential future, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the field of adolescent mental health and outdoor experiential therapy.
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In this episode, Will talks with Andy Benckart, a former wilderness therapy participant whose transformative journey has led him to pursue a master's degree in social work. Andy shares how his time in wilderness therapy helped him confront and process deep-seated anxiety and trauma, giving him the clarity and tools needed to rebuild his life. Through a technique referred to as brainspotting and the guidance of a compassionate therapist outdoors, Andy discovered new strengths within himself, setting him on a path toward helping others.
Reflecting on his experiences as both a participant and later as a staff member in a young adult residential treatment program in Maine, Andy offers a nuanced perspective on the benefits and challenges of wilderness therapy and residential treatment. He discusses the importance of being ready for change, the value of outdoor experiences in mental health recovery, and his commitment to using his journey to support others in similar situations. Andy also shares how surfing in Maine has helped him to be the best version of himself. This episode is a powerful testament to the healing power of nature and the potential for personal growth through mental health treatment in the outdoors.
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In this episode Will talks with Ciara Fanlo, founder of Homing Instinct, to discuss her transformative journey from a âtroubled teenâ to a dedicated mentor for adolescents. Ciara opens up about her personal struggles with depression, anxiety, and self-harm, and how wilderness therapy played a pivotal role in her recovery. She candidly addresses the pros and cons of teen treatment programs, highlighting how these experiences have deeply informed her approach to mentoring.
Ciara shares how her time in wilderness therapy provided new perspectives and coping mechanisms, while also acknowledging the challenges and shortcomings she faced in therapeutic boarding school. These insights have shaped Homing Instinct, her mentoring program that focuses on understanding the unique needs of teenagers. By combining her personal experiences with professional training, Ciara offers tailored support to help teens navigate their emotional landscapes, build healthy relationships, and find a sense of purpose. This episode offers a nuanced look at the impact of teen treatment programs and the importance of compassionate mentorship.
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