Adventure THerapy
"Second Nature has made me a better person. I am finally myself, after years and years of putting on a mask. Second Nature is the second home I never expected to accept. Thank you.” - Alumni Student (2025)
Growth Through Experience
Nature and adventure have been foundational to the Second Nature model from the beginning. We believe these experiences can be powerful catalysts for growth, giving students opportunities to discover new strengths, experience genuine accomplishment, connect with others, and see themselves in new ways.
Adventure also brings movement, discovery, connection, and fun into treatment. Students aren't simply talking about change. They experience moments when something that once felt difficult becomes manageable, when they surprise themselves, or when they simply enjoy being part of something alongside others.
Adventure on the Trail and Beyond
Hiking and backpacking are woven throughout the Second Nature experience. Moving through the landscape together creates a natural sense of purpose and shared accomplishment, with plenty of room for conversation, curiosity, laughter, and moments of discovery along the way.
Bouldering adds another dimension to our adventure therapy approach. Each climbing route, or "problem," asks students to slow down, think strategically, adjust their approach, and try again. There is challenge, but also energy, laughter, encouragement, and the satisfaction of finally making a move that didn't seem possible the first time.
The Research Behind Adventure
Research supports the value of thoughtfully designed outdoor and adventure-based experiences for adolescents, with studies showing positive outcomes in areas such as self-efficacy, social development, emotional well-being, and personal growth.
At Second Nature, adventure is intentionally connected to each student's broader therapeutic work. Experiences on the trail and while bouldering offer opportunities for reflection, greater self-awareness, connection, and a growing sense of what's possible.
Research includes Fang et al. (2021), Mygind et al. (2019), and Bowen et al. (2016).
The Journey Matters
There is something powerful about moving through the landscape together. Miles are shared, conversations unfold, laughter breaks through, and students begin to notice how far they've come. Backpacking creates a sense of momentum and accomplishment that is both deeply personal and shared with the group.
Sometimes looking back at the trail behind you makes it easier to imagine what's possible ahead.