Our Stories of Collaboration Throughout the Therapeutic Wilderness Process

Abstract

This chapter explores the experiences of families who have participated in wilderness therapy through a modified case study approach in which we, the participants, are also observers of the experiences of our entire families. We delineate the process of seeking, selecting, and participating in wilderness therapy, as well as the role of an educational consultant in facilitating this. We talk about our own experiences before, during, and after wilderness. We describe (1) the recognition of the adolescent’s struggles and suffering; (2) our introduction to the concept and possibility of wilderness therapy; (3) the decision-making process with its inherent difficulties and stresses; (4) the ongoing nature of the families’ experiences, including family and parent participation in workshops; (5) identifying, understanding, and accepting the need for ongoing support post-wilderness and the team effort involved in planning the next steps and discharge ; and finally, the (6) observation of the results for both participants and families over the next several years. Areas of growth and struggle are noted. The children’s perspectives on our families’ development over time and the interactions among us are also discussed. We conclude by discussing a collaborative path forward for everyone involved and interested in alternative therapeutic and educational placements.