Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the Outdoors

Will White
  • 5,0 (2)
  • SANTÉ MENTALE
  • CHAQUE SEMAINE
Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the Outdoors

Stories from the Field: Mental Health in the Outdoors is an authoritative and enlightening podcast that explores the vast landscape of mental health therapies in outdoor settings. Hosted by seasoned mental health professional Dr. Will White, the podcast offers deep insights into outdoor therapies like Adventure Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Wilderness Therapy, and Experiential Therapy, among others. Dr. White engages with a diverse range of guests, including leading researchers, practitioners, authors, executive directors, guide staff, mental health clinicians, and critics, helping to shed light on the nuances of these unique therapy practices. In addition to exploring the modern implications of these evolving therapeutic modalities, he delves into their rich history, providing a holistic perspective for listeners. With over 30 years of experience at the juncture of mental health and outdoor environments, Dr. White's expertise is unparalleled. As a co-founder of the pioneering Summit Achievement, an adventure therapy program based in Maine, he has been a guiding force in the field since the 1990s. His scholarly contributions include the book "Stories from the Field: A History of Wilderness Therapy" and a chapter in "Adventure Therapy: Theories, Research, and Practice." His doctorate work, "Stories from the Elders: Chronicles and Narratives from the Early Years of Wilderness Therapy," traced the origins and evolution of this specialized field. To connect with Dr. White, visit storiesfromthefield.com. Listen to this immersive podcast to understand the power and potential of outdoor therapies in addressing mental health concerns.

  1. 2024-12-17

    Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare – Exploring Wilderness Therapy’s Complicated Past

    In this special episode Will takes a deep dive into the Netflix documentary Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare, which explores the infamous Challenger Foundation—a 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 Challenger’s 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 Will’s 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.

    33 min

  2. 2024-12-10

    From Wilderness to Evolution: How True North Transformed Its Therapeutic Model

    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 feedback—both from young adults and the broader field—while maintaining a strong ethical foundation. This episode offers valuable insights into how a pioneering program is reimagining the future of outdoor behavioral healthcare.

    44 min

  3. 2024-12-03

    Navigating Change in Wilderness Therapy: Insights from Andrew Taylor

    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.

    50 min

  4. 2024-11-19

    After Open Sky: How Danny Frazer is Shaping the Future with Gain the Ridge

    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 involvement—elements 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?

    49 min

  5. 2024-11-12

    Addressing Controversy by Transparency: A Conversation with Summit Achievement's CEO

    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 steadfast—the 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.

    39 min

  6. 2024-11-05

    From Adventure Therapy to Disaster Relief: PIVOTPoint's Journey Amidst Turmoil

    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 PIVOTPoint’s 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, PIVOTPoint’s 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/.

    49 min

  7. 2024-10-29

    From Wilderness to Well-being: How Confluence Adapts to Changing Youth Challenges

    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.

    40 min

  8. 2024-10-15

    Confronting Challenges in Wilderness Therapy: A Conversation with Derek Daley

    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 therapy—such as canyoneering, rock climbing, and skiing in southern Utah—with 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.

    49 min
Tout afficher (255)

Notes et avis

5
sur 5
2 notes

À propos

Stories from the Field: Mental Health in the Outdoors is an authoritative and enlightening podcast that explores the vast landscape of mental health therapies in outdoor settings. Hosted by seasoned mental health professional Dr. Will White, the podcast offers deep insights into outdoor therapies like Adventure Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Wilderness Therapy, and Experiential Therapy, among others. Dr. White engages with a diverse range of guests, including leading researchers, practitioners, authors, executive directors, guide staff, mental health clinicians, and critics, helping to shed light on the nuances of these unique therapy practices. In addition to exploring the modern implications of these evolving therapeutic modalities, he delves into their rich history, providing a holistic perspective for listeners. With over 30 years of experience at the juncture of mental health and outdoor environments, Dr. White's expertise is unparalleled. As a co-founder of the pioneering Summit Achievement, an adventure therapy program based in Maine, he has been a guiding force in the field since the 1990s. His scholarly contributions include the book "Stories from the Field: A History of Wilderness Therapy" and a chapter in "Adventure Therapy: Theories, Research, and Practice." His doctorate work, "Stories from the Elders: Chronicles and Narratives from the Early Years of Wilderness Therapy," traced the origins and evolution of this specialized field. To connect with Dr. White, visit storiesfromthefield.com. Listen to this immersive podcast to understand the power and potential of outdoor therapies in addressing mental health concerns.

Informations

Vous aimerez peut-être aussi

Pour écouter des épisodes au contenu explicite, connectez‑vous.

Suivez l’actualité de cette émission

Connectez-vous ou abonnez-vous pour suivre des émissions, enregistrer des épisodes et obtenir les dernières mises à jour.
Sélectionnez un pays ou une région

Afrique, Moyen-Orient et Inde

Asie-Pacifique

Europe

Amérique latine et les Caraïbes

Les États-Unis et le Canada