If you’re thinking of using Colorado wilderness therapy to help your teen, you’ll likely have many questions you want to have answered before entrusting your child to someone with whom you’re not related. One of the most important people in the wilderness therapy process is the wilderness therapy guide. To help you understand more of what the wilderness therapy guide does and how they will help your child, here is some basic info on what these individuals do.
Part Explorer
A crucial aspect of Colorado wilderness therapy is that it takes place in the wilderness. To help guide the way on this adventure, the wilderness therapy guide is, at their core, an explorer. They understand how to survive in the Colorado wilderness, having skill in a variety of land- and water-based outdoor disciplines. They will ensure your child stays safe throughout their experience so that they can fully enjoy the beautiful sights around them.
Part Mentor
Unlike many explorers who like to keep to themselves, however, wilderness therapy guides thrive when they’re around people. Specifically, wilderness therapy guides feel most at home when they’re guiding teens toward healing. Guides understand how to synthesize the experiences the teens are enjoying, helping them look inside themselves and deal with some of the troubles that have brought them on the trek in the first place. They are adept at handling the tough questions with grace and concern and are always available to give advice.
Part Cheerleader
As a wilderness journey ends, wilderness therapy guides take on the role of cheerleader to help coalesce the lessons that have been learned in the wilderness so that your teen can continue to learn and change after they’re back in “real life.” From constant encouragement to follow-up help, as needed, the wilderness therapy guide’s job is never done, as they are always available to help you and your family succeed. If you’d like to learn more about wilderness therapy, contact the experienced team of the Fire Mountain Residential Treatment Center.
