As a parent, your child’s well-being is your top priority. You might have noticed changes in your teenager’s behavior—they’re not the same bright, full-of-life person they used to be. You’ve tried everything you can think of, but nothing seems to work. You feel lost, overwhelmed, and scared for your child’s future. But what if there was a different approach? Adventure therapy is an experience-based approach that can help teens find a new appreciation for life. But what is adventure therapy, exactly?
Family First offers experiential therapy for teen boys at our Palm Beach Gardens, FL, center. You can find your son help now by calling 888.904.5947.
What Is Adventure Therapy for Teens?
Adventure therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses outdoor activities and adventures as a means of mental and emotional healing. This type of therapy aims to provide adolescents with an environment where they can face their fears, learn new skills, build self-confidence, and improve their mental health.
Is an Adventure Therapy Program Safe?
Over recent years, some adventure and wilderness therapy programs have received negative attention and criticism for being unsafe. However, these situations are the exception rather than the norm. When conducted by trained, licensed professionals, adventure therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for teens struggling with mental health issues.
Benefits of Adventure and Experiential Therapy
Adventure therapy offers numerous benefits for troubled teens. It allows them to step out of their comfort zone and into a world of new experiences, challenges, and discoveries. It encourages them to take risks, make decisions, and solve problems in new settings. Some types of experiential therapy include:
- Expressive art therapy
- Paddleboarding and water activities
- Exercise and physical challenges
- Group outings and team-building exercises
- Nature walks and camping trips
Through these activities, teens can gain a sense of accomplishment, build self-esteem, develop trust in themselves and others, and learn valuable life skills.
Why Experiential and Adventure Therapy Works
Mental health and substance use issues often lead to siloed thinking and negative behaviors. Adventure therapy provides a unique opportunity for teens to break out of their routine and connect with nature, themselves, and others in a positive, non-judgmental environment. This supportive setting allows them to open up, process emotions, and learn new coping strategies.
When they are exposed to new situations where they must be creative in solving problems or working together as a team, teens can gain a sense of empowerment and self-awareness. They can also build healthier relationships with their peers and develop confidence in themselves.
What to Look for in an Experiential Therapy Program
Safety should be your number one priority when considering an adventure therapy program. It’s essential to research the program thoroughly and ensure that it is accredited by reputable organizations, staffed by licensed professionals, and follows safety protocols.
You can interview the program staff and ask about their qualifications, experience, and safety procedures. Ensure there are clear, consistent communication channels between the program staff, you as the parent, and your child.
Additionally, you can read reviews online and chat with other parents who have sent their teens to the program. This can give you a better understanding of the program’s effectiveness and safety measures.
Call Family First for Teen Therapy in a Safe Environment
At Family First, we understand the challenges of finding a safe and effective therapeutic program for your teen. Our licensed therapists are trained in experiential therapy techniques and provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each teen’s unique needs. We also prioritize safety and follow all necessary protocols to ensure our programs are a positive experience for all participants.
Parents receive at least three check-ins per week and have text access to our case managers 24/7. Teens meet daily with a nurse and with a psychiatric provider at least once a week. Plus, we schedule family therapy that brings parents and teens together with a therapist to work through challenges in communication and relationships.
Call 888.904.5947 or contact us online now to find therapy that engages your teen and helps them build a better future.