Understanding Wilderness Protocols Therapeutic Value

Each treatment and operational protocol at RedCliff is based on this crucial question, “What is the therapeutic value?” That question also explains why we do not offer high adventure recreational types of activities.

A troubled teen on developmental hiatus does not struggle with a lack of entertainment in his or her life. Moreover, what she or he lacks is the ability to master the mundane responsibilities that come with school, work, and family relationships.

At RedCliff, the goal is to help teens find meaning in those daily activities, rather than search for an outside “thrill.”  A typical day will include hiking, learning and practicing wilderness survival skills such bow/drill fire making, orienteering, botanical identification, journaling, and low-impact camping.

Furthermore, each of these activities is part of a clinical approach to therapy. Our model combines clinicians with solid therapy backgrounds and the ability to build positive relationships with students with an understanding of how to use the wilderness environment to assess and treat.

With this in mind, call an admissions counselor at 801-921-8488 for additional information about how RedCliff Ascent can help your family.