Trails Carolina is a wilderness therapy program that utilizes the Outdoor Adventure Therapy (OAT) model to help struggling adolescents and young adults address various emotional and behavioral challenges. The OAT model combines the therapeutic benefits of the wilderness experience with traditional therapeutic modalities. Here's a breakdown of the Outdoor Adventure Therapy model at Trails Carolina:
Wilderness Setting:
Trails Carolina is situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, providing a natural and serene environment for participants.
The wilderness setting is an integral component of the therapy, offering participants a break from their daily routines and environments.
Experienced Staff:
The program employs a team of experienced and trained therapists, field instructors, and support staff.
Field instructors play a crucial role in guiding participants through outdoor activities and facilitating therapeutic discussions
Individualized Treatment Plans:
Each participant receives an individualized treatment plan that is developed by a team of therapists based on their specific needs and goals.
The plan may include a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, and experiential activities.
Experiential Learning:
Participants engage in various outdoor activities, such as hiking, backpacking, camping, and rock climbing, which are designed to promote personal growth, self-awareness, and teamwork.
These activities provide opportunities for participants to learn new skills, build self-esteem, and develop a sense of accomplishment.
Therapeutic Modalities:
Traditional therapeutic approaches, such as individual and group therapy, are integrated into the wilderness setting.
Participants have the chance to engage in therapy sessions while immersed in the natural environment, allowing for a unique and transformative therapeutic experience.
Skill Building:
Outdoor activities are used to teach practical life skills, such as problem-solving, communication, leadership, and emotional regulation.
These skills are transferrable to real-life situations, helping participants make positive changes in their daily lives.
Adventure and Challenge:
Outdoor challenges and adventures are intentionally designed to take participants out of their comfort zones.
Facing and overcoming challenges in the wilderness setting can boost self-confidence and resilience.
Peer Support:
Group dynamics are an essential aspect of the OAT model. Participants interact with their peers in therapeutic group settings, sharing experiences and providing support.
The group environment can foster a sense of community and help participants develop social and interpersonal skills.
Family Involvement:
Family therapy and involvement are key components of the program.
Families participate in workshops and therapy sessions to improve communication and understanding, which can facilitate the healing process.
Transition Planning:
As participants near the end of their program, the staff at Trails Carolina work with families to create a transition plan, ensuring a successful return to the home environment or the next step in their journey.
The Outdoor Adventure Therapy model at Trails Carolina is designed to help young people struggling with a range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and defiance. By combining wilderness experiences with therapeutic support, Trails Carolina aims to promote personal growth, emotional healing, and positive change in the lives of its participants.