Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy is a unique rehab approach that aims to heal a person’s connection to themselves, others, and the environment. It’s a versatile therapy that can assist those dealing with addiction or seeking to enhance their recovery through engaging experiential activities.
Incorporating adventure therapy into a comprehensive treatment plan adds a fulfilling and meaningful route to recovery. Through nature outings and team-building activities, individuals can boost self-awareness by involving their mind, body, and spirit in the rehab adventure program. At Royal Life Centers, we strive to provide a wide range of recovery options for everyone who comes to us for help. Reach out today and learn more about incorporating adventure therapy in Washington State into your recovery plan.
What Is Adventure Therapy?
Adventure therapy, also known as wilderness therapy or nature-based therapy, is a form of group therapy that involves individuals in dynamic outdoor settings. It operates on the principle that learning occurs best through hands-on experiences, a concept introduced by Michael A. Gass, PhD, in 1993. Participants in adventure therapy work towards achievable goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency.
These activities typically involve challenging outdoor tasks that engage participants both physically and mentally. The therapy goes beyond mere physical and emotional stimulation, also incorporating cognitive aspects. Counselors guide participants in reflecting on the experiences before, during, and after the activities.
While counselors play a role in helping attendees understand the deeper meanings of the activities, adventure therapy promotes self-reliance. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with substance abuse, as addiction often brings feelings of helplessness and shame. Nature therapy, as part of Aftercare treatment for addiction, imparts life skills and coping mechanisms while providing immediate enjoyment and rewards through engaging activities.
The combined effect of physical challenges and psychological exercises leads to personal growth across the realms of the mind, spirit, and body.
Adventure Therapy Groups
Adventure therapy allows people to learn and practice new skills in a supportive environment. These activities are not only fun but also help individuals explore their strengths and weaknesses. In wilderness settings, adventure therapy groups work to boost an individual’s self-confidence and self-trust. Group members often work together to accomplish a task, collaborate on an activity, or reach a destination.
Some of the adventure therapy activities used during treatment include:
- Rock climbing (indoor or outdoor)
- Hiking
- Nature walks
- Ropes courses
- Obstacle courses
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Sailing
- River rafting
- Canyoneering
- Cycling or mountain biking
- Horseback riding
These activities help guests connect with their teammates for a common yet personal goal. Developing these skills brings satisfaction and self-awareness.
Adventure therapy also lets guests explore the outdoors, increasing awareness of the natural world. The mix of physical activity and nature exploration is beneficial, fostering a greater appreciation for the environment. It’s a great way to break the routine and step out of one’s comfort zone.
What's the Difference Between Adventure Therapy and Standard Addiction Treatment?
How Can Adventure Therapy Help in Recovery?
What to Expect During Aventure Therapy
In nature therapy outings, trained facilitators include challenging exercises to build new skills. Expect exciting and enjoyable activities that promote regular exercise routines for lasting physical wellness after leaving Royal Life Centers.
You’ll also gain cognitive and regulatory skills for your outpatient journey. For example, kayaking fosters teamwork and adventure-based ropes courses enhance self-reliance and survival skills.
Adventure group therapy requires a personal desire to succeed and proves effective, especially in aftercare. As you progress in treatment, you’ll be ready to take control of your healing outside an inpatient setting.
Recreational activities benefit recovery by requiring whole-body drive and focus. Guests not only benefit during treatment but also receive training to continue these activities with peers in the recovery community after leaving treatment.
Adventure Therapy at Royal Life Centers
We offer treatment programs involving horses at the following levels of care:
If you are struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, adventure therapy may be able to help. If you think adventure therapy might be right for you, please reach out to us today and learn more about treatment!
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help today.
Adventure Therapy in Washington
As a part of the Royal Life Centers addiction treatment network, Spokane Heights is one of our adventure therapy treatment centers in Washington state. We also have facilities for detoxification and inpatient treatment, as well as for outpatient and aftercare programming. A tailored treatment plan will help you find the best path to recovery.
Our recovery centers in Washington include:
- Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights is our detox and inpatient treatment center in Spokane, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Cascade Heights is our aftercare and outpatient treatment center in Mead, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at The Haven is our detoxification and inpatient treatment center in Lacey, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Sound Recovery is our aftercare and outpatient treatment center in Lacey, Washington.
- Royal Life Centers at Puget Sound is our detox and residential inpatient treatment center in Sumner, Washington.
Are you looking for help with addiction? Let us support you on the path to lasting recovery
Addiction and Mental Health Recovery
At Royal Life Centers, we believe that no one should remain trapped in the isolating cycle of addiction and mental illness. We see our guests as individuals, not defined by their struggles, but as people with unique stories and potential for recovery.
Our comprehensive approach to healing focuses on your overall well-being. Our team of licensed therapists and clinicians will collaborate with you to develop a personalized service plan that addresses both your addiction and psychological disorders, targeting the root causes for lasting healing.
When you begin treatment with Royal Life Centers, our dedicated therapists will meet with you to create a tailored treatment plan, incorporating evidence-based and complementary therapies proven to be effective in treating substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring disorders.
Remember, it is never too late to seek help or ask questions on behalf of yourself or a loved one. Reach out to us about addiction treatment using outdoor adventure by filling out a secure contact form or calling us at 888-907-0898.
Looking for Adventure Therapy?
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse and/or a co-occurring mental health disorder, please reach out to us to find out more about how adventure therapy can help. We work with most private insurance policies and we have affordable self-pay rates if you do not have insurance. Give us a call and we will figure out the best treatment plan for you or your loved one.
Because We Care.
Would you like more information?
If you or someone you know has a substance use disorder, we hope you’ll begin your journey with us at Royal Life Centers.
