In this episode Will chats with David Wynn, LCMHC, an outdoor mental health provider from Blue Ridge Treks. David shares his transformative journey from a river guide and camp mentor to a mental health professional, revealing how natural environments play a crucial role in psychological healing. He delves into the power of nature to transcend traditional therapy boundaries, offering clients a unique blend of psychological insight and environmental interaction. David discusses his approach to integrating therapeutic techniques with outdoor experiences, providing profound insights into how physical spaces can influence mental health treatment.

 As a professional who transitioned from conventional to outdoor settings, David illustrates through personal anecdotes and professional experiences the therapeutic benefits of engaging with the natural world. This episode not only highlights his methods and successes but also explores the broader implications of outdoor mental health practices, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in alternative and effective approaches to mental wellness.

In this compelling episode, Will engages with Cash Lambert about his groundbreaking new book, "Surf Therapy: The Evidence-Based Science for Physical, Mental, and Emotional Well-being." Cash discusses his evolution from a journalism student, initially participating in a surf therapy event to fulfill volunteer hours, to an author dedicated to documenting the profound impacts of surf therapy. His journey began with witnessing the transformative effects of surfing on children with autism, leading to his first book, “Waves of Healing: How Surfing Changes the Lives of Children with Autism” that captured these life-altering experiences. His narrative weaves together heartfelt stories and the significant changes observed in participants and volunteers alike, which fueled his passion for advocating surf therapy’s benefits.

The conversation further explores Cash’s latest book, which expands the examination of surf therapy to a wider audience, including veterans and individuals suffering from PTSD. This book is supported by extensive research and aims to legitimize surf therapy as a recognized therapeutic method. Throughout the interview, Cash shares powerful testimonials and research findings, highlighting the unique benefits of surf therapy and his vision for its future as a mainstream therapeutic option. His dedication to enhancing understanding and acceptance of surf therapy shines through as he details the journey of bringing these healing practices to a global audience.

To connect with Cash or buy his book use this link.

In this episode, Will talks with Will Cockrell, author of the new book, "Everest Inc.: The Renegades and Rogues Who Built an Industry at the Top of the World." Cockrell delves into the untold stories of the Everest guiding industry, offering a nuanced perspective that challenges the sensational narratives often associated with Everest. His book presents a counter-narrative, focusing on the complexity of the industry and the passionate individuals involved, rather than the common portrayals of chaos and disaster on the mountain.

Cockrell explains his motivations for writing the book, highlighting his desire to address the oversimplified and often negative depiction of Everest in popular media. He shares insights from his conversations with key figures in the guiding industry, revealing a history driven by passion rather than mere profit. The discussion also touches on personal accounts from other notable climbers and their transformative experiences on Everest, underscoring the deeply personal and varied reasons people are drawn to the mountain.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the potential impacts of Cockrell's book on public perception of Everest, aiming to enrich the listener's understanding of the guiding industry's complexities. Cockrell's in-depth research and fresh perspectives invite listeners to reconsider the narrative surrounding one of the world's most iconic peaks.

To find out more about Will Cockrell and to buy his book check out his website: https://www.willcockrell.com/

In this episode, Will talks with Bryn Lottig who shares her compelling journey from an aspiring pilot changed by 9/11 to a pioneering force in the field of outdoor experiential education. Through her personal experiences with adversity, including a challenging childhood and a transformative experience with Outward Bound, Bryn discovered her passion for the outdoors and its profound impact on personal development. This realization led her to pursue a career that not only embraces adventure but also utilizes it as a tool for fostering social and emotional growth in individuals.

Bryn co-founded Kikori, a digital platform that epitomizes her commitment to democratizing experiential education. Kikori aims to bridge the gap between outdoor activities and educational curricula, providing educators and students alike with access to resources that promote social and emotional learning through adventure. The platform reflects Bryn's belief in the power of community and collaboration, featuring thousands of activities contributed by hundreds of educators, designed to cater to a diverse range of needs from early childhood education to corporate team building.

"No Child Left Inside," Bryn's new book, encapsulates her vision for integrating character development into education via outdoor experiential learning. The book serves as both a memoir and a guide, offering insights into the science behind experiential learning, practical activities, and the personal stories that inspired Bryn's work. Through her narrative, Bryn advocates for a shift in educational paradigms, emphasizing the importance of equipping the next generation with the resilience, empathy, and leadership skills needed to navigate the challenges of the 21st century. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of the outdoors and its essential role in shaping confident, compassionate individuals.

In this special episode, Will sheds light on the upheaval in the wilderness therapy landscape, particularly spotlighting the closure of Embark Behavioral Health's New Visions Wilderness Therapy programs. This narrative delves into the broader implications of private equity's role in the mental health care industry, with a focus on how these financial underpinnings have influenced the recent pivot away from wilderness therapy models, especially in the context of adolescent treatment. The episode underscores the closure of not just New Visions in Wisconsin and Deschutes Wilderness Therapy but notes a startling trend: the total cessation of ten adolescent wilderness therapy programs in the past year alone, signaling a seismic shift in the field.

In discussing New Visions Wilderness Therapy, the episode shares a brief history of the program and spotlights the utilization of trauma-informed care as a factor in its growth and success. The incorporation of trauma-informed practices into their treatment model did play a role in differentiating New Visions in a growing behavioral healthcare marketplace, aiding in its expansion and the subsequent interest from larger, investment-driven entities. This examination underscores the complexity of the adolescent wilderness therapy field, where clinical innovation intersects with business interests, leading to significant changes in the availability and approach to adolescent mental health care.

This episode navigates through the nuances of these closures and the broader implications for the changing wilderness therapy landscape, offering a dive into the intersection of financial decisions, clinical practices, and the changing dynamics of adolescent mental health treatment. As the wilderness therapy sector faces this pivotal juncture, White's analysis provides essential insights for professionals, families, and stakeholders, charting the ongoing evolution of treatment modalities in the face of economic and clinical challenges.

Article and podcast episodes talked about in this episode:

Wilderness Therapy Industry's Decline Accelerated by Embark Behavioral Health's Exit

Podcast episode with Steve Sawyer in which we talk about trauma-informed care

Podcast Interview with Drew Hornbeck, Co-founder of New Visions

Podcast Interview with Steve Sawyer, Co-founder of New Visions

In this enlightening conversation, Will talks with Tripp Johnson who shares his unique journey into behavioral healthcare and his evolution into a social entrepreneur. His accidental entry into the field, catalyzed by personal challenges with alcohol and a transformative exploration of mindfulness and yoga, marks the start of his commitment to improving mental health care. Tripp discusses his foundational experiences, including his time at West Point, his military service, and his eventual pivot towards integrating his passion for holistic wellness into his professional life. This journey led him to co-found Green Hill Recovery, focusing on helping young adults navigate life's challenges through integrated treatment programs that blend academic, career development, and mindfulness practices.

Throughout the conversation, Tripp delves into the challenges and successes of shifting from private pay to an insurance-driven model, emphasizing the importance of accessibility, affordability, and quality of treatment. He critiques the private pay segment of the industry for often prioritizing marketing and referral relationships over clinical sophistication and advocates for systemic changes to make high-quality care accessible to a broader demographic. Tripp's approach, inspired by his personal growth journey and professional experiences, underscores the need for the healthcare industry to innovate and adapt to serve clients better and ensure sustainability.

The interview concludes with Tripp's vision for the future, where he hopes to see an industry that continues to innovate and provide care that is both high quality and accessible to all. He discusses his role in leading an innovation-focused offshoot to develop back-office systems and technology to streamline processes and enhance patient care. Tripp's story is a compelling call to action for the behavioral healthcare industry to evolve and embrace models that prioritize patient well-being, accessibility, and the integration of holistic practices into treatment methodologies.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this episode Will sits down with Nate Bennick, the National Field Director for Adventure Recovery, to dive into the transformative power of combining mental health treatment with outdoor adventures. Nate shares his personal journey from battling addiction to finding solace and strength in the wilderness, leading him to his role in Adventure Recovery. Nate's story exemplifies the impact of nature-based immersions and adventure in fostering recovery and self-discovery, resonating with anyone looking for a path to healing outside the conventional therapy rooms.

Nate shares his story from working in the confines of traditional residential treatment programs to the expansive possibilities offered by wilderness therapy. The episode delves into how Adventure Recovery leverages adventure and the natural world as vehicles for change, providing individuals in recovery with opportunities to challenge themselves, enhance resilience, and cultivate a sense of community. It further highlights the operational aspects of Adventure Recovery, including the preparation and certification of guides, the array of activities available, and the tailored support provided to clients on their recovery journeys.

This episode not only illuminates the innovative approach of Adventure Recovery but also stands as a tribute to the therapeutic potential of the outdoors. Nate's dedication to aiding others in finding their recovery path through adventure is both moving and motivational, making this episode essential listening for anyone interested in the confluence of mental health treatment and outdoor exploration.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

 In this episode Will talks with Dan Schmader, the Program Director at Foundation House, to delve into the therapeutic integration of outdoor activities in the realm of mental health and addiction recovery. Schmader unveils the unique approach of Foundation House, located in Portland, Maine, emphasizing its dedication to males aged 17 to 35. He outlines the transition journey of residents from structured care environments to a blend of Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), all while residing in a sober living house. Schmader highlights the program's success in leveraging the natural beauty and resources of Portland and Bethel, Maine, to foster recovery through a diverse array of outdoor activities, including wilderness outings, sports, and life skills workshops.

The conversation further explores the profound impact of outdoor adventures on the residents' recovery process. Schmader shares personal anecdotes and the transformative experiences of participating in both local and international expeditions, such as service work in the US Virgin Islands and trekking in Patagonia. These adventures, rooted in challenges, accountability, and teamwork, significantly contribute to the mental, spiritual, and physical facets of recovery. Schmader’s own journey from a resident to a leading figure at Foundation House underscores the profound personal and communal growth facilitated by the program.

Conclusively, this episode not only sheds light on Foundation House's innovative treatment model but also underscores the invaluable role of outdoor activities in healing and recovery. The discussion vividly illustrates how embracing adventure, confronting challenges, and fostering connections can pave the way for a renewed sense of purpose and well-being among individuals battling addiction.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this enlightening episode Will sits down with Dr. Madolyn Liebing, a historical figure in the wilderness therapy field and the clinical director at Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Juniper Recovery Center. Dr. Liebing provides an in-depth look at their blended program for adults, which combines intensive clinical therapy with experiential outdoor adventures, designed to support smoother transitions for clients into their communities. She discusses the therapeutic modalities employed, such as EMDR and emotion-focused therapy, and underscores the importance of addressing trauma, substance abuse, and family dynamics within a nurturing, natural environment.

Dr. Liebing candidly addresses the controversies surrounding wilderness therapy for adolescents, including the criticism following the Netflix documentary "Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare." She shares her concerns about the field including transporting teens as well as generalizations that have tarnished the reputation of wilderness therapy, emphasizing the rigorous safety protocols and therapeutic benefits of well-run programs. Through personal anecdotes and client stories, Dr. Liebing illustrates the profound transformations that can occur when individuals are given the opportunity to heal in the wilderness, away from the pressures and distractions of their usual environments.

The episode takes a deeper dive into the challenges faced by the wilderness therapy field, with Dr. Liebing reflecting on the closures of adolescent wilderness programs and the impact of social media and public perception. Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic about the future of wilderness therapy, advocating for the expansion of outdoor-based therapeutic models that can reach more individuals in need. Dr. Liebing's insights not only highlight the innovative work being done at Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Juniper Recovery Center but also champion the crucial role of nature in recovery and personal growth, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the skepticism surrounding the field.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this episode Will sits down with Roy DuPrez, CEO and Founder of Back2Basics, an outdoor-based recovery program in Arizona.  Roy shares his personal journey of recovery, beginning with his early struggles with alcohol and substance abuse in Venice Beach, California. He describes the allure of alcohol in his youth, influenced by his social environment and the perception of success and attractiveness associated with drinking. Roy's journey through addiction led to various consequences, including legal troubles and professional setbacks.

Moving to Flagstaff, Arizona, for a fresh start, Roy found a shift in his life. Despite continuing his drinking habits initially, he eventually reached a turning point in 2001, leading him to embrace recovery and sobriety. This transformation was bolstered by outdoor experiences, such as visiting the Grand Canyon, which provided a profound sense of perspective and renewal.

Roy shares the story of starting Back2Basics in 2010, combining his experiences with a unique recovery model that integrates outdoor expeditions with clinical therapy. The program, initially private pay but later accepting insurance, targets young men aged 18 to 35, offering a 90-day minimum stay with most staying longer. This approach allows for the planting of seeds of recovery, personal growth, and the development of life skills in a supportive environment.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this enlightening episode Will welcomes Mike Hench from At the Crossroads, a program dedicated to helping young adults navigate the challenges of transitioning to adulthood. Mike shares the inspiring journey of At the Crossroads, which began in 2005 as a brainchild of Brian and Shannon Virgin, aimed at helping young adults in less restrictive environments than traditional residential programs. The program, located in St. George, Utah, offers a unique blend of real-life experiences, community integration, and outdoor experiences, catering to young adults struggling with issues like social anxiety, depression, and substance use.

Mike delves into the evolution of client demographics at the At the Crossroads program, noting a shift towards individuals with complex psychological issues rather than substance abuse. He emphasizes the therapeutic power of nature, sharing personal experiences of transformative moments with clients during outdoor activities like hiking. These interactions highlight the significant role of nature in promoting mental wellness and personal growth.

The episode also touches on the broader landscape of mental health and outdoor therapy, specifically the wilderness therapy field. Mike discusses the challenges and changes in the field, including the impact of the pandemic and shifts in treatment models. He underlines the importance of innovative approaches and the increasing need for services that address unique modern challenges faced by young adults.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.