Exploring How the Wilderness Therapy Process Relates to Outcomes

Abstract

Wilderness therapy is seen as a treatment option for seriously troubled adolescents not being reached by traditional forms of treatment. The research shows that wilderness therapy can improve self-perceptions, increase social adjustment, and reduce recidivism of adolescent participants. However, research on wilderness therapy has not been specific in describing how presenting problems are assessed by wilderness therapy and how therapeutic approaches relate to target outcomes. This article examines the wilderness therapy process in context to illustrate how the process related to specific outcomes for four client case studies in four wilderness therapy programs. Trends emerged from qualitative data analysis illustrating the importance of alone time and opportunity for reflection and a non-confrontive and caring approach that helped clients establish a trusting relationship with staff. Three outcomes were common across all four client case studies in the form of proposed changes: (a) a better relationship with their family, (b) abstinence from drugs and alcohol, and (c) a desire to try harder and complete school. Four-month follow-up interviews revealed clients doing well, though three had used drugs and alcohol to varying degrees, which underlines the importance of structured aftercare services.