Therapeutic Wilderness Programs

The wilderness experience is a powerful therapeutic tool. We have found that through the combination of the wilderness environment, adventure activities, and the sense of community formed by living closely, wilderness trips facilitate the changes our students desire.

The wilderness environment offers the opportunity for:

• Learning to be self-reliant through natural and logical consequences
• Witnessing natural phenomenon and beauty which can be conducive to personal reflection and spiritual awareness
• Direct educational and teachable moments
• Students to see themselves differently and have a fresh start
• Feeling good from a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise

Adventure activities such as camp skills, backpacking, climbing, and river crossings provide opportunities for students to:

• Develop new skills and gain a sense of accomplishment
• Push beyond perceived limits and to see themselves as more capable
• Be responsible and contribute to the safety and well-being of the group
• Be exposed to new and different activities, and to discover new personal strengths

Living and working together in a small community allows students additional one-on-one time with staff for meaningful conversation and attention, and encourages participation. Living in a small community, such as a ten-person wilderness crew, facilitates:

• The development of trust and communication
• An atmosphere conducive to self-disclosure and the flow of both positive and constructive feedback
• The process of conflict resolution for the benefit of the group
• Full participation which is necessary for the group's success

2 Therapeutic Wilderness Programs:

Therapeutic Wilderness Program for Boys

Therapeutic Wilderness Program for Groups

Our Therapeutic Wilderness Programs are an opportunity for teenage boys ages 13-17 to participate in a 1 to 3 week wilderness backpacking expedition in the mountains of western Wyoming. The focus of the trip is to motivate boys to develop skills and attitudes to help them become more successful in their home community. Teamwork, cooperation, group decision making, and personal contributions to the group are all important aspects of wilderness travel and the family environment.

Red Top Meadows will work with the family, service providers, therapists and the participants to set reasonable goals and objectives for their experience. This program works well for students who are in need of a brief intervention or a boost of motivation or confidence. It is also a useful assessment tool for parents or referral agencies.