dear participant,nicholas magle-haberek, hindy finman, anat moskowitz derek daley, mary hickey, mike...

1

Dear Participant, At OBH Council’s 2018 Wilderness Therapy Symposium we invite you to discover a wealth of new information in an exciting collaborative atmosphere. This event is purposefully called a symposium instead of a conference to emphasize that this is a gathering of people with similar interests and concerns who want to learn from each other.

The Symposium cultivates cooperation, inquiry and sharing. People come with awillingness to share knowledge and ideas. Presenters are encouraged to make their work-shops experiential, hands-on, and interactive. Please expect nothing less than the very best at your Symposium.

Symposium Schedule OverviewPlease see the ‘Schedule’ page for additional details

Note: ALL preconference workshops on Thursday 8/23 are included in full-conference registration fees this year– no additional fees required to attend.

Thursday 8/237:30 – 8:30a.m. Friends of Bill meeting9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Onsite Preconference WorkshopsNoon – 1p.m. Lunch break – lunch provided 4 – 6 p.m. Registration/Check-in and Networking Reception6 – 7 p.m. Dinner7 – 9 p.m. Keynote Lecture: Gary Ferguson & Mary Clare

Friday 8/247:30 – 8:30 a.m. Friends of Bill meeting9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Onsite 1.5hr & 3hr workshops Noon – 2 p.m. Lunch break; lunch not provided NOTE: No Women’s Leadership luncheon in 2018.2:15 – 5:30 pm. Onsite & Outdoor half-hour, 1.5hr & 3hr workshops6 p.m. . Reception and dinner at Red Pine Lodge7 – 11 p.m. Jumping Mouse Ceremony & DJ music/dancing

Saturday 8/257:30 – 8:30 a.m. Friends of Bill meeting9am – 3 p.m. Outdoor 6hr workshopsOR9a.m. – Noon Onsite workshops (half-hour, 1.5 & 3hr available)Noon – 1:30p.m. Lunch break; lunch not provided1:30 – 3 p.m. Onsite 1.5hr workshops3 p.m. Closing ceremony

2

OBH Council and its member programs would like to welcome you to the

2018 Wilderness Therapy Symposium!OBH Council and its member programs would like to welcome you to the 2018 Wilderness Therapy Symposium! In the spirit of a true symposium, your participation is as essential as that of the facilitators. Please listen closely, ask inquisitively, and share openly, so others can learn from you as well. Thanks for being here!

OBH Council Members:Adventure Works

Anasazi Foundation Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness

Elements Wilderness Program Evoke at Cascades Evoke at Entrada

Legacy Outdoor Adventures New Vision West Coast New Vision Wisconsin

Open Sky Wilderness Therapy Outback Therapeutic Expeditions

Pure Life AspiroRedCliff Ascent

Santa Fe Mountain CenterSecond Nature

Summit Achievement SUWS of the Carolinas

The Aspiro Group Trails Carolina

True North Wilderness ProgramWinGate Wilderness Therapy

The OBH Council represents numerous and varied wilderness therapy programs which utilize outdoor modalities combined with therapeutic interventions to assist adolescents, young adults and their families to make positive and lasting life changes.

Founded in 1996, representatives from a handful of wilderness treatment programs joined together to collaborate, share ideas/best practices, promote program standards, and research the effectiveness of wilderness therapy. The organization and its member programs have been instrumental in “raising the bar” for wilderness treatment and have proven its profound benefits for teenagers and young adults challenged with mental health, behavioral issues and/or substance abuse.

Since its inception, the OBH Council has set a high standard that families can trust when seeking a solution for their troubled teenagers or young adults. In this tradition, the OBH Council partnered with the Association of Experiential Education (AEE) to form the most stringent accreditation process in the field. OBH Accreditation is likely to emerge as the standard by which all future wilderness treatment programs will be measured.

3

Thursday Morning Meeting 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Friends of Bill MeetingDarcy HoltPlease join us for an open 12 step meeting. The first 20 minutes with a speaker and the rest would be an open share. The only requirement is the desire to stay sober!

Darcy grew up in Greenbrier, Arkansas where she graduated high school and attended Ar-kansas College in Batesville. After her parents retired, they moved to Enterprise, Utah and Darcy transferred to Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. Darcy has over 21 years of experience working as a mentor and sponsor with adolescents and adults that suffer with the disease of addiction.

Thursday 3-Hour Pre-Conference Workshops9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Changing the Way We Work: Putting Research to UseOBH Center Research Scientist and friends: Tony Alvarez, LMSW, Ellen Behrens, PhD, Licensed Psychologist, Joanna Bettmann Schaefer, PhD, LCSW, Derek J. Dal-ey, SUDC, Steven DeMille, LMHC, PhD, Michael Gass, PhD, LMFT, Brett Talbot, PhD, Anita R. Tucker, PhD, LICSW and others, including student presenters!The purpose of this year’s workshop is to present the latest research on OBH, but also more importantly to have a dialogue about how to make the research work for those in attendance. How can what we are learning about the research have immediate implications for the audi-ence members? We will follow a similar format as last year in order to maintain the experien-tial format of the day. The workshop will begin with a quick introduction, followed by groups of 15-minute presentations with experiential activities between each group of presentations meant to bring the audience together in meaningful dialogue and reflection of the research and ideas presented throughout the day.

Come join us to be a part of this important discussion! Abstracts of all the research will again be available for all participants.

TIME

THURSDAYFriends of Bill meeting (7:30 – 8:30 a.m.)Pre-Conference (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Pre-Conference (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Pre-Conference (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Thurs Lunch (12 – 1 p.m.)Thurs Evening Keynote (7 – 9 p.m.) FRIDAYFriends of Bill meeting (7:30 – 8:30 a.m.)Diversity Education Session (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Friday Morning 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Friday Morning 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Friday Morning 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Friday Morning 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Fri Morning 1.5 hour (9 – 10:30 a.m.)Fri Morning 1.5 hour (9 – 10:30 a.m.)Fri Morning 1.5 hour (10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.)Fri Morning 1.5 hour (10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.)Friday Lunch break (12 – 2 p.m.): NO lunch providedDiversity Education Session (2:15 – 5:15 p.m.)Friday Afternoon 3 hour (2:15 – 5:15 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1/2 hour x 4 (2:15 – 4:15 p.m.)

Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (2:15 – 3:45 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (2:15 – 3:45 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (2:15 – 3:45 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (2:15 – 3:45 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (4 – 5:30 p.m.)

Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (4 – 5:30 p.m.)Fri Afternoon 1.5 hour (4 – 5:30 p.m.)

SATURDAYFriends of Bill meeting (7:30 – 8:30 a.m.)Saturday 6 hour Workshop (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) OUTDOORSaturday 6 hour Workshop (9 a.m. - 3 p.m. OUTDOORSaturday 6 hour Workshop (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.) OUTDOORSaturday 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.) Saturday 3 hour (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.) Saturday Morning 1/2 hour x 4 (9 – 11 a.m.)

Saturday 1.5 hour (9 – 10:30 a.m.) ONSITESaturday 1.5 hour (10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.) ONSITESaturday Lunch break (12 – 1:30 p.m.) NO lunch providedSaturday 1.5 hour (1:30 – 3 p.m.) ONSITESaturday 1.5 hour (1:30 -3 p.m.) ONSITESaturday 1.5 hour (1:30-3 p.m.) ONSITESaturday 1.5 hour (1:30-3 p.m.) ONSITESaturday (3 – 3:20 p.m.)

PRESENTER

Darcy HoltNorman ElizondoGreta LutmanAnita Tucker, et al.Lunch provided for workshop participantsGary Ferguson & Mary Clare

Darcy HoltCaprice HollinsNeal Christensen, Matt Hoag, Bridger JensenMaddy Liebing, Derek DaleyRob Meltzer, Danny RecioJustin Swensen, Darcy Holt, Steve DeMilleWill White, Lynette Spencer, Aaron Fernandes, Karen ScraffordMisty Blakesley, Juan Antonio Dixon, Colleen Fox and Melissa Harper

Tim Mullins, Elise MitchellEric Fawson, Alaina ChatterleyNote: NO Women’s Leadership luncheonCaprice HollinsMike Gass, Mary Covington, Brian KingAndrew Taylor (1), Laura Mills (2),Karen Scrafford (3), Charles Carlin (4)Gordon Harris, Steven DeMilleKris Brightbill, Erin Grover Troy Faddis, Ray Barlow, Derek DaleyNicholas Magle-Haberek, Hindy Finman, Anat MoskowitzDerek Daley, Mary Hickey, Mike Petree, Jesse Quam, Grant Leibersberger, Bryan DelaneyJosh White, Tim Mullins, John TobiasShayne Gallagher

Darcy HoltBrett Talbot & Derek DaleyShayne Gallagher, Sheri GallagherPetra Lentz-Snow & Charles CarlinMike Gass, Hilary Moses, Tony Alvarez, Jessalyn HobsonTara Stireman, Liz LucarelliLaura Mills (1), James Skelton (2), Diana Clark (3), Tyler Carroll (4)Katelyn BeVard, Ellyn Zografi, Trina GraterAJ Frithiof

Emily Thelen, Bo Bicknell, Kendra MeiklejohnMatt Hoag, Dan KikkertKera Miller, Janet Farnsworth, Sarah RothsteinSean Roberts

WORKSHOP TITLE

Take the Heat and Hold Your Seat: An Embodied Mindfulness Approach to Engaging Diversity and Inclusivity Trainings

Nine Perspectives: Using the Enneagram to Understand Self, Others, and Relationships

Changing the Way We Work: Putting Research to Use

Full Ecology: It’s You!

Diversity Education Session #1: Cultural Competence: Understanding Implicit Bias and the Impact of Racial Stereotyping

Exploring the Limits of Wilderness Therapy; evaluating risk vs reward while working with treatment resistant clients

Wilderness, Women, and Wild Craft

The Role of Nature in Wilderness Therapy

Keeping the Tradition of Ceremony and Wooden Spoon Carving Alive

Are you adventurous enough to start your own program? Stories from OBH program founders

Nature Appreciation and Tracking: Trauma-Sensitive and Somatic Approaches to Healing the Whole

The Tango of Risk and Reward

Working Smarter, not Harder: Utilizing Motivational Stages of Change

Diversity Education Session #2: Talking with Children and Youth about Race

Media, Lawyers, Insurance Agents: Navigating through the rapids of financial viability for OBH programs

1) iGen - It’s complicated 2) If the Shoe FITS, Wear It: Walking the Feedback Informed-Treatment Mile

3) Owner, Program Director....Wife and Mother 4) Therapeutic Landscapes and More-than-human Subjects

Mindfulness, Meditation, and Research: An Experiential Presentation (with some research)

Say What? Improving communication in interprofessional collaboration (“IPC”) for best practice and optimal customer care.

Nine lifestyles habits that lead to recovery

The use of Jewish storytelling and Metaphor in Wilderness Therapy

20+ Years Later: Field Guides reflect on how the wilderness experience shaped their lives.

The Obstacle is The Way: How the aftercare choice process can deepen therapeutic work in the wilderness

Double Ball and Other Rockin Native Games

Cueing events for behavior change

Drum Therapy Starts With Making A Drum

Core Elements of Wilderness Rites of Passage

Family Therapy with OBH populations

The Power Project Initiative - “I Am So Offended!!”

1) Evaluating the Outcomes of Family Engagement with Intensive Therapy 2) Mindfulness, Attentional Bias, and Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment

3) The Role of Parents in Young Adults Sustaining Recovery 4) Why P and P are not Followed

Therapists and Field Staff Relationship: How Authenticity and Collaboration Improves Treatment

Diversity and Inclusion Training for Wilderness Therapy Professionals

Deep in the woods, and only skin deep: Self-Harming Behaviors in Young Women

The field guides: Who are they?

Hostage Negotiations OR Learner’s Permit: Building Effective Agreements for the Whole Family System When Transitioning Home

“If I only knew then what I know now.” What I would do differently as a wilderness therapist

Closing Ceremony

Thursday 3-Hour Pre-Conference Workshops9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Nine Perspectives: Using the Enneagram to Understand Self, Others, and RelationshipsGreta Lutman, MA, LPC, LCASParticipants will be introduced to the rich and fascinating system of the Enneagram; an ancient model for understanding what it means to be a human being in the world. In this system, there are nine distinct personality “styles,” each with its own particular viewpoints, motivations, fears, wounds, strengths, and beliefs. Participants will learn their own personality orientations, as well as how to use the Enneagram to quickly deepen their understanding of the inner workings of the individual students and family members we work with, as well as the dynamics between those individuals.

Greta has worked in wilderness programs and therapeutic boarding schools since 2000. Her therapy practice is rooted in Gestalt techniques, guided imagery, indigenous healing; tools that help clients heal by finding and reconnecting with disconnected parts of themselves.

Take the Heat and Hold Your Seat: An Embodied Mindfulness Approach to Engaging Diversity and Inclusivity TrainingsNorman Elizondo According to the findings of researchers, Frank Dobbin and Alexandra Kalev, most diversity train-ing efforts at American companies are ineffective and even counterproductive because people often feel attacked, guilty, angry and defensive which causes people to even further entrench themselves in their beliefs and biases, however mistaken. Mindfulness and the practice of meditation strengthen and develop distress tolerance and allow practitioners to go beyond their ingrained emotional reactions and biases. Participants will begin with experiential learning of fundamental embodied awareness exercises and meditation practices that support emotional regulation and then practice these skills when discussing the emotionally loaded topics of Power, Race and Privilege.

Norman has worked in wilderness therapy for over 19 years and is a co-founder of Open Sky Wilderness Therapy. In addition to his wilderness therapy experience, Norman is trained in the Ti-betan Kagyu, Nyingma and Shambhala lineages and is a certified meditation instructor through the Dharma Ocean Foundation.

Thursday LunchNoon – 1 p.m.There will not be a keynote speaker for lunch this year, but please join us for lunch onsite curtesy of our event sponsors!

6

7

Networking Reception4 – 6 p.m.

We anticipate approximately 40-50 organizations will be represented in our networking reception with staff and information about their organizations. This is a great opportunity to connect with others in the field and the Symposium participants. The reception also serves as your opportunity to check-in with the Symposium onsite and receive your registration packet.

Dinner6 – 7 p.m.

Dinner will be provided onsite this year courtesy of the Symposium sponsors.

The Eagle Award7 p.m.

The Eagle Award was created in 2012 by the OBH Council and is given annually at the Wilderness Therapy Symposium to recognize outstanding contribution to the field of wilderness therapy. The 2018 Eagle Award will be given to TBA

The OBH Council is proud to recognize TBA for their profound impact on the field of Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare, so please join us on Thursday night as we present them with this year’s Eagle Award!

8

Thursday Night Keynote7 – 9 p.m.

Full Ecology: It’s You!Mary Clare, PhD & Gary FergusonWilderness therapy practitioners are entirely devoted to what author, Gary Ferguson and socio-cultural psychologist, Mary M. Clare term, Full Ecology. This keynote provides new and explicit links between critical aspects of natural and interpersonal systems. Ferguson and Clare anchor specifically in 3 critical forces that shape every life form: a) deep interde-pendence; b) astonishingly efficient use of energy that supports a reliable stream of “best choices”; and c) diversity - empirically, the best predictor of resilience. The duo makes the bridge from ideas to practice - Ferguson bringing science and storytelling and Clare bringing clinical insights for supporting social and personal health.

Gary Ferguson has been a keynote speaker for a variety of national and international organizations, including the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs and the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Industry Council. His lectures draw from thirty years spent researching - and experiencing - the marriage of wild lands, cultural history and psychology. Gary has written for a variety of national publications and is the author of twenty-five books on nature and science, including Shouting at the Sky. His wilderness memoir, The Carry Home, was awarded the Sigurd Olson Award for the best nature book of 2014.

With 30 years of experience as a professor, scholar and consultant, Mary Clare, Ph.D. now works to support high character leadership. Drawing on her academic roots in psychological and cultural studies, Mary helps leaders draw forward the strength in diverse perspectives and priorities. Her work spans corporations, NGO’s, government agencies, Tribal communities, and all levels of education. Mary is a Fellow in the American Psychological Association, with over 100 scholarly articles and two books – most recently 100 Voices – Americans Talk about Change (2011), a chronicle of enduring wisdom and immediate guidance in times of sweeping cultural change.

9

Friday Morning Meeting 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.


Darcy grew up in Greenbrier, Arkansas where she graduated high school and attended Arkansas College in Batesville. After her parents retired, they moved to Enterprise, Utah and Darcy transferred to Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. Darcy has over 21 years of experience working as a mentor and sponsor with adolescents and adults that suffer with the disease of addiction.

Friday 3-Hour Workshops9 a.m. – Noon

Exploring the Limits of Wilderness Therapy; evaluating risk vs reward while work-ing with treatment resistant clientsNeal Christensen, PhD, Matt Hoag, PhD, & Bridger Jensen, MS, APC, CTRSWilderness therapy has been found to be effective for a wide array of challenging clientele, though at times these programs find themselves working with clients that take a toll on field staff, therapists, and even the milieu. This workshop will explore several cases that were discharged early based on safety and behavior related issues. The presenters will invite the audience to share their experience and welcome dialogue about impacts on themselves and their program. Presenters will suggest a Standard of Care for these types of cases and provide specific clinical recommendations for programs managing these challenging cases.

Neal, Clinical Director of Elements Wilderness Program, has treated adolescents in OBH for over a decade. He feels fortunate to be working in tandem with the wilderness and adventure to support his students’ recovery from their mental health challenges.

Matt has served as Clinical Director for Evoke (Second Nature Entrada) since its inception and works with adolescent males. He is active in OBH research and has published several notable studies investigating the benefits of wilderness therapy.

Bridger spent time on the trail as a field guide which gave him inspiration to pursue a graduate degree mental health counseling. He has joined with Discovery Connections which has often served students who have struggled in the wilderness.

10

Friday 3-Hour Workshops (continued)9 a.m. – Noon

Diversity Education session #1: Cultural Competence: Understanding Implicit Bias and the Impact of Racial StereotypingCaprice Hollins, Psy. D. For years society has encouraged colorblind ideology without taking into consideration the impact it has on people of color. Through video, interactive activities and discussion of the research, participants are challenged to examine implicit bias, stereotype threat and its effect on relationships and racial identity. As a result, participants deepen their appreciation of challenges facing people of color, grow in self-awareness and begin to explore ways to effectively engage across cultures.

Dr. Caprice D. Hollins was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She received a B.A. in psychology from Seattle University and an M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Multicultural and Community Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology — LA. Dr. Hollins has over 20 years of experience working with ethnically diverse populations, providing mental health services, facilitating workshops and teaching graduate courses as an adjunct professor at several local universities. She is currently an Affiliate Professor at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. After serving as the Director of Equity, Race & Learning Support for Seattle Public Schools for four years she co-founded Cultures Connecting, LLC, providing culturally relevant professional development workshops, keynotes, leadership coaching and consulting services to organizations seeking to improve their skills in effectively engaging all cultures www.culturesconnecting.com. She co-authored Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Strategies for Facilitating Conversations on Race. Dr. Hollins works hard to balance her passion and commitment to equity and social justice while at the same time raising a family with her husband, Gary Hollins. Together they have two children and she has three adult step children.

11


Wilderness, Women, and Wild CraftMaddy Liebing, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist & LMFT, & Derek Daley, SUDCWhen we think of wilderness adventurers, it is common to think of men. However, history is littered with women who have bucked the trend. Why? Wilderness women have always had to fight cultural prejudice and yet, how rewarding it has been for them to find the courage to do so. Today the challenge still exists and understanding the different ways women experience the wilderness can enhance the effectiveness of wilderness therapy for women. This workshop explores the ways women experience the wilderness and uses Wild Craft… making a leather bag necklace… to understand mindfulness, nurturance, and healing in the wilderness.

Dr. Liebing is a licensed psychologist and LMFT who was the co-founder of one of the first wilderness therapy programs (Aspen Achievement Foundation, 1988), but was taking teens out on wilderness treks as early as 1978 as a high school counselor. She was the recipient of the OBH Eagle Award in 2015 for her contribution to wilderness therapy. More recently she has helped design and implement the women’s division of Legacy: Juniper Canyon.

Derek is a co-founder of Legacy Outdoor Adventures and a seasoned professional in the field, with 18 years of experience working in the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare industry, he was the recipient of the 2017 Utah Community Service award for his nonprofit work. Derek began his career in the therapy industry facilitating personal growth experiences working as a field guide in So. Utah.

The Role of Nature in Wilderness TherapyRob Meltzer, MA, CEP & Danny Recio, PhDThe major problems in the world are the result of the difference between how nature works and the way people think," said Gregory Bateson. So, how is it that nature works? How can our thinking better align with nature? How does this inform our work with our clients in the wilderness? We will draw from the fields of Chaos Theory and Complex Dynamic Systems and share new advances in evolutionary theory and genetics to answer the first question. We will use Systems Thinking, Cybernetics and Embodied Cognition to answer the second, and will engage the audience in experiential exercises and time for sharing our methods with each other, to answer the third question.

Rob is a Consultant, Wilderness Guide, Therapist, and Educator. He’s been a program director, school principal, and university professor. He facilitates experiential workshops for families that include outdoor adventure, music, art, and horses. He is the founder of the Wilderness Therapy Symposium.

Danny holds a master’s degree in Psychology and a doctorate in Integrated Ecology. He is co-founder of programs in Costa Rica and South Africa that are inspired in principles of ecology and systems thinking.

12


Keeping the Tradition of Ceremony and Wooden Spoon Carving AliveJustin Swensen, Darcy Holt & Steve DeMille, PhDJoin Justin C Swensen, Steve DeMille PhD, and Darcy Holt in keeping the tradition of hand-made wooden spoons alive. In this workshop, participants will learn how to use handmade wooden spoons in ceremony, the fundamentals of ceremony, and how to create their own spoon. Carving a wooden spoon is much more than making a few cuts on a piece of wood, it is an opportunity to engage our creative energy to create something useful and beautiful in a ceremonious way. Spoon carving offers opportunities to physically and emotionally engage with ourselves, the natural world, and most important, the students we work with in the field. Together as we remove the unnecessary wood from the blank to reveal the inner beauty, I believe that you will find wooden spoon carving is rich with metaphor. All participants will not only have the opportunity to participate in a spoon ceremony, but they will also learn how to create their own spoon and spoon ceremony. All skill levels welcome!

Justin brings a passion for adventure, unique life experience, and nearly 15 years’ experience as a wilderness professional to his current position as the Field Director at RedCliff Ascent. He has worked at two other wilderness therapy programs, Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Wingate Wilderness Therapy. Throughout his career he has held several positions including Field Director, Assistant Field Director. Darcy grew up in Greenbrier, Arkansas where she graduated high school and attended Arkansas College in Batesville. After her parents retired, they moved to Enterprise, Utah and Darcy trans-ferred to Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. Darcy has over 21 years of experience working as a mentor and sponsor with adolescents and adults that suffer with the disease of addiction.

Steven DeMille is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who has been working in the helping industry since 2000. He is the Executive Director for RedCliff Ascent and has over ten years of experience working with adolescents and young adults. His research interests include ethics, digital boundaries, identity development and Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare.

13

Friday Early Morning 1.5-Hour Workshops9 – 10:30 a.m.

Are you adventurous enough to start your own program? Stories from OBH program founders Will White, DA, LCSW, Lynette Spencer, LCSW, Aaron Fernandes, Karen Scrafford Have you ever considered starting a wilderness therapy program? If so this is the presentation that you should attend! Learn from founders who have been through the experience of start-ing and running an OBH Program. Taking on such an enterprise takes courage, perseverance, knowledge, capital (human and financial), grit and dumb luck. Learn from those who have gone through the good, bad, and ugly of starting a program. This panel presentation will in-clude four OBH program founders who still are employed at and operate their programs. This panel will include only small, independently owned or operated OBH programs. Each founder will tell the evolution of their program while answering the following questions: Why did they start their program? How did they do it? What have they learned? What would they do differ-ently? What are three things they have learned that they wish they knew when they started their programs? What is their plan for the future (exit strategy)?

Will White is co-founder of Summit Achievement (1996) where he has held various titles over the years including clinician, clinical director, CEO and director of outreach. He is also the au-thor of, Stories from the Field: A History of Wilderness Therapy. He looks forward to sharing his ownership story.Lynette is the founder and executive director of Adventure Works (2010). She is a wife and mom to two young women, a clinical social work, the current Vice Chair of OBH Council, and an advocate for accessibility and diversity in the outdoors. Adventure Works is her response to the mounting mental health needs of today’s youth.

Karen began her work in wilderness therapy in 2001 as a field instructor and then had the op-portunity to move into the role of assistant field director. Karen was responsible for numerous business and program functions, including quality management, personnel management, training, and logistics. Through these experiences, she became an integral part of the found-ing team at Elements in 2008.Aaron began his career as a field guide 20 years ago. After working for larger entities, he de-cided to create a small holistic wilderness program focused on both the child and family. Open Sky was born in 2006. A passionate, lifelong learner who believes in the power of community, Aaron served as Chair of the Wilderness Therapy Symposium from 2011 to 2016.

14

Friday Early Morning 1.5-Hour Workshops9 – 10:30 a.m.

Nature Appreciation and Tracking: Trauma-Sensitive and Somatic Approaches to Healing the WholeMisty Blakesley, Juan Antonio Dixon, Colleen Fox and Melissa HarperIn this fun, experiential workshop, we will explore ways to encourage the awareness and release of trauma held in the mind, body and spirit. We will notice and appreciate Nature, patterns in Nature, patterns in ourselves and ourselves as part of Nature. By reinforcing our positive con-nections within ourselves and to those around us, we will be able to strengthen our individual and community resiliency. We will also explore indigenous perspectives of healing and com-munity. This workshop is open to all ability levels. Gentle movement and interactive activities are included. Bring clothing to spend a short amount of time outside.Misty is a Program Manager for the Mountain Center, working with Native American communi-ties, survivors of violence, youth in the juvenile justice system, folks in recovery and other vulner-able populations. She encourages individuals and groups to heal and grow through exploring connection with both the inner and outer natural worlds.

Colleen is a Program Manager for the Therapeutic Adventure Program at the Mountain Center, working predominantly with adjudicated youth, survivors of trauma, people in recovery and youth in foster care. She has worked for non-profits in the EE field for 12+ years and has worked for organizations such as Outward Bound, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Wolftree, and Naturalists at Large. She is a certified teacher with a degree from the University of Michigan. Colleen is a staff trainer and rock climbing instructor at the MC. She is a climber and enjoys time outside with her daughter, Wren and dog, Rooster.

Melissa is a Program Manager for the Therapeutic Adventure and Counseling Services Programs at the Mountain Center, working predominately with youth and adults struggling with substance use, trauma, and other co-occurring diagnosis. Melissa has an MA in counseling from Southwest-ern College of Santa Fe, studies Equine Gestalt therapy, and is a certified high school teacher. She is a horse rider and enjoys time with dog, Scout, and horse, Moonlight.

Juan Antonio Dixon has been working in the field of Therapeutic Adventure with youth in the juvenile justice system as well as adults in treatment for substance use for over twelve years. He is the Executive Director for the Mountain Center in New Mexico, U.S.A.

15

Friday Late Morning 1.5-Hour Workshops10: 45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

The Tango of Risk and RewardTim Mullins, MA, CMHC, LCPC & Elise Mitchell, E-RYT, BSThis is an experiential workshop on leading and following in challenging relationships. The dance of navigating complex interactions with clients and caregivers under stress is one where professionals need to lead … to interventions or therapeutic intentions, and also to know when to follow the lead of the clients as they express their perceived needs in the relationship. From the view of interpersonal neurobiology, interaction, engaged relationships are fundamental to well-being.

Tim became a wilderness guide in 2009 and the experience changed his life. By 2012, he received a Master’s degree in counseling psychology from Prescott College and he is currently completing Doctoral studies in clinical psychology at Cal Southern. For pleasure, Tim plays outside, plays chess, and dances whenever possible. He is currently a therapist in wilderness program.

Elise began as wilderness instructor in 2010, though her yoga career began earlier. She has been the health and wellness director for Evoke Therapy Programs since 2014. Elise has had a fruitful career working with people and sharing the joys of yoga.

Working Smarter, not Harder: Utilizing Motivational Stages of ChangeEric Fawson, LCSW & Alaina Chatterley, LCSWCatalyze change and minimize field staff and clinician burnout by pairing unique motivational approaches with specific Stages of Change. This interactive & dynamic session will help the participant rapidly recognize a client’s stage of readiness for change, instantly know the dos and don’ts for each stage, and zero in their approach from a new arsenal of tailor-made skills designed to move a client in each particular stage forward. Whether you’re a field staff, clinician, professional, or administrator, you can bring these new tools back to your organization to improve the effectiveness and enjoyability of your work with youth and young adults at all levels of your organization.

Eric is a Program Therapist at Elements Wilderness. Eric’s professional career began in 2001 as a line staff in a residential program, followed by earning a graduate degree and becoming a therapist. Eric has extensive experience working the many facets of adoption/attachment, trauma, depression, anxiety and substance abuse in the wilderness setting

Alaina Chatterley is Clinical Director of Launch. She began her career as a wilderness field staff in 2002 and completed her graduate work at Brigham Young University in 2005. Alaina has worked in the outpatient settings of individual and couples counseling, play therapy, and has over a decade of work with teenagers in residential treatment including 15 years at Heritage.

16

Lunch Break12 – 2 p.m.

Lunch not provided; There will not be a Women in Wilderness Leadership luncheon in Park City this year.

Friday Afternoon 3-Hour Workshops2:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Diversity Education session #2: Talking with Children and Youth about RaceCaprice Hollins, Psy.D.Recent research has shown that children have very complex understandings of differences and stereotypes. Far from being color-blind, most children are aware of how their own skin color is an advantage or disadvantage. They also judge their peers based on stereotypes that adults might like to believe young children in today’s generation don’t have. Because of this, it is im-portant to give children anti-bias messages, through actions and words, that actively counter what they are internalizing and witnessing in the world. In this workshop we will explore how young people learn and practice racism and privilege. Participants will learn strategies to for acting on teachable moments and ways to create counter narratives.

Dr. Caprice D. Hollins was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She received a B.A. in psy-chology from Seattle University and an M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with an em-phasis in Multicultural and Community Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology — LA. Dr. Hollins has over 20 years of experience working with ethnically diverse populations, providing mental health services, facilitating workshops and teaching graduate courses as an adjunct professor at several local universities. She is currently an Affiliate Pro-fessor at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. After serving as the Director of Equity, Race & Learning Support for Seattle Public Schools for four years she co-founded Cultures Con-necting, LLC, providing culturally relevant professional development workshops, keynotes, leadership coaching and consulting services to organizations seeking to improve their skills in effectively engaging all cultures www.culturesconnecting.com. She co-authored Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Strategies for Facilitating Conversations on Race. Dr. Hollins works hard to balance her passion and commitment to equity and social justice while at the same time raising a family with her husband, Gary Hollins. Together they have two children and she has three adult step children.

17

Friday Afternoon 3-Hour Workshops2:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Media, Lawyers, Insurance Agents: Navigating through the rapids of financial vi-ability for OBH programsMike Gass, PhD, LMFT, Mary Covington & Brian KingThe purpose of this workshop is to discuss and outline the negotiation of OBH programs with lawyers, land management agents, insurance carriers, and the media. Three case studies and current negotiations will be presented -- one for experimental denial, a second for medical necessity denial, and a third for failure to cover services. The workshop will also summarize practical ways that programs can increase their ability to make OBH programing more acces-sible for more families. Legal council will also be present to advise current practices.

Michael Gass is a Professor and Coordinator of the Outdoor Education Program in the Depart-ment of Kinesiology at the University of New Hampshire. He received his Ph.D. in experiential education from the University of Colorado at Boulder and completed postdoctoral studies in marriage and family therapy. He is the director of OBD Research Center and NATSAP Research Database.

Mary Covington is President of Denials Management, Inc., a healthcare advocacy firm special-izing in medical and mental health billing, claims and appeals. Mary’s experience in health-care spans 45 years. She began working in the healthcare industry in 1970 and was employed with two major insurance companies through the 1980’s. Mary started Claims Management, Inc. (CMI) in 1990.

Brian S. King is an attorney who has represented health care providers and families litigating denied mental health and medical claims. He has handled hundreds of residential treatment and wilderness claims, including acting as lead claimants’ counsel in over a dozen class ac-tions. He also serves as the Minority Leader in the Utah State House of Representatives.

18

Friday Afternoon Half-Hour Workshops2:15 – 4:15 p.m.(These 4 half-hour presentations will be in a “Ted-Talk” style format)

Talk #1: iGen - It’s complicatedAndrew Taylor, MBALast year we discussed millennials and everything that makes them what they are. This year the focus is iGen. iGener’s are currently in their teens and are just starting their path into adulthood and they are actually quite different than Millennials. They are safe, cautious, skeptical, and growing up later than any other generation before them. They further the trend of depression, anxiety and suicide rates. They are our clients and will shortly be our employees. The smart-phone has changed their world and our world forever. They are at more risk of suicide than any other generation we’ve seen. To understand iGen is to understand ourselves and our families as we all play an important role in the future of this complex world we’re navigating.

Andrew co-founded Pure Life Aspiro, an adventure therapy program for young adults, in 2013. He currently serves as Executive Director of his team. He also hosts a podcast on iTunes called In the Trenches, where he interviews professionals and discusses Millennial and iGen issues.

Talk #2: If the Shoe FITS, Wear It: Walking the Feedback Informed-Treatment MileLaura Mills, PhDEvaluation should first benefit the client, and secondarily be a process to inform accountability and transparency. Collectively, clients benefit from evaluation via informed decisions and quality improvement, but feedback-informed-treatment (FIT) takes evaluation one step further. FIT shows individual health and how it changes, fostering collaborative clinical dialogue between client and provider. By adopting FIT at Pine River Institute, youths see the evolution of their emotional and behavioral health – and they love it! We will share our process, methods, tools, and outcomes and dialogue about the challenges, solutions that we have found, and next steps for FIT.

Laura is the Director of Research & Evaluation at Pine River Institute and is dedicated to advancing the field of adolescent addictions and mental health through collaborative research that informs best practices. Her Ph.D. work focused on quantitative techniques that address ‘messy’ clinical data issues. Laura is passionate about gardening, travelling, and photography.

19

Friday Afternoon Half-Hour Workshops (cont.)2:15 – 4:15 p.m.(These 4 half-hour presentations will be in a “Ted-Talk” style format)

Talk #3: Owner, Program Director....Wife and MotherKaren ScraffordWhat is it like to co-run a company and be a wife and mother? Hard as hell. Am I doing enough for my employees and the company? Am I doing enough for my husband and son? I believe that women who want families don’t have to take a lesser role in order to have a family. I do believe you can still be successful, have high standards, and be an active partner and devoted mother. It certainly isn’t easy and does require a lot of support and flexibility but can be managed. I don’t want to compromise on either end. That’s my stubbornness. I also don’t want to use my role as an owner as power for privilege. I will talk about my journey into these roles and what I have learned and what I am still trying to figure out. It’s not perfect but I am making it work while still trying to honor my values.

Karen began her work in wilderness therapy in 2001 as a field instructor and then had the opportunity to move into the role of assistant field director. Karen was responsible for numerous business and program functions, including quality management, personnel management, training, and logistics. Through these experiences, she became an integral part of the founding team at Elements in 2008.

Talk #4: Therapeutic Landscapes and More-than-human SubjectsCharles Carlin, M.A., LPCThe demonstrated efficacy of wilderness therapy raises important questions about the more-than-human world and how we conceptualize the borders between individuals and the sites of wilderness programs. In this presentation, I offer some ideas on how to theorize the “therapeutic landscapes” of wilderness programs and how to pay attention to their agency in the study of participants’ experiences. I will present results from an ongoing research project with the rites of passage organization, The School of Lost Borders, to demonstrate how ethnographic research, put in conversation with philosophical debates, can provide new insights into how the therapeutic effects of wilderness experiences unfold. I build on work across the en-vironmental humanities in which scholars have made important strides in articulating how nonhumans—plants, animals, landscapes—have agency and how that agency is deeply inter-twined with human subjectivity and one’s sense of self.

Charles Carlin is a PhD candidate in the department of Geography at UW-Madison, and an occasional instructor at the National Outdoor Leadership School. He studies the relationship between psyche and place in the American wilderness tradition. Charles lives in Madison, WI with his wife and son.

20

Friday Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops (cont.)2:15 – 3:45 p.m.

Mindfulness, Meditation, and Research: An Experiential Presentation (with some research)Gordon Harris & Steven DeMille, PhDThis experiential presentation will introduce participants to mindfulness and medication prac-tices that are conducive for working with adolescents. Participants will learn about and engage in three mindfulness practices and meditations used with adolescents. They are focused atten-tion, open monitoring practices and loving-kindness practice. Although most of this presenta-tion will be experiential and focus on the potential applications and benefits of mindfulness and meditation, part of this presentation will have a research focus. Participants will learn about an ongoing study to explore the impact of mindfulness on treatment outcomes for ado-lescents in wilderness therapy.

Gordon Harris: On my journey, I have encountered mindfulness and meditation at several meaningful crossroads in my life. Each has made a lasting impact in a unique and powerful way. Currently, my path has taken me to RedCliff Ascent as the Assistant Field Director. One of my responsibilities at RedCliff is to oversee the development and implementation of the mindfulness curriculum.

Steven DeMille: I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have worked with adolescents in various capacities. I began working with adolescents as a field guide at RedCliff Ascent in 2000. I am experienced in Experiential Therapies, Narrative Family Therapy, Adlerian Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have worked with adolescents and families in many differ-ent settings over the years.

21


Say What? Improving communication in interprofessional collaboration (“IPC”) for best practice and optimal customer careKris Brightbill, MA, LPC & Erin Grover, LCSW, MSW, TRS, CTRS, SEPCommunication is key....and any successful collaboration depends on it. Wilderness therapy, while it consists of a diverse, professional population, often is required to interact and interface with other diverse behavioral health professionals. This interaction can become a very effective collaborative process known as Interprofessional Collaboration (IPC). Wilderness staff and clinicians and educational consultants can and should strive for this level of cooperation for best practice and for best results for the clients and their families. However, the historic nature of these differing roles and responsibilities throughout the continuum of care can sometimes lead to lack of clarity and even conflict. This workshop will address and explore both successes and obstacles to professional collaboration as well as strategies to overcoming those differences for best results and optimal client care.

Kris Brightbill, MA, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor (and certified secondary guidance counselor). She is a Clinical Consultant with Redwood Educational Services and the founder and director of Turning Tides Transitions, a customized and supportive aftercare program in the suburban Philadelphia area. She has over 20 years of clinical experience.

Erin became an outdoor educator in 1999. Her wilderness career began in 2003. Having worked in several wilderness programs Erin has held positions as Field Staff, Staff Trainer, Recruiter, Field Director, Assistant Operations Director and Clinical Director. Erin’s been a Certified Recreational Therapist (CTRS) since 2005. She is also a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.

22


Nine lifestyles habits that lead to recoveryTroy Faddis, LMFT, Ray Barlow & Derek Daley, SUDCThe Nine Keys Workshop presentation is based on key research in the field of addiction that outlines specific lifestyle habits that lead to, promote, and predict long-term sobriety. This research is validated not only in the addiction literature but also in literature from couple’s work, depression, anxiety, and process addictions. Many of these findings validate a 12-step lifestyle for those who want to maintain long-term recovery. We have broken down the research into seven main key points. We will cover each of these points in detail, giving specific examples and engage in experiential exercises to help teach, illustrate, and develop these keys for each of the participants in the workshop. The seven keys are:

1. Purpose 2. Community and accountability 3. Time 4. Strengths/Self-Efficacy and Learn how to have fun 5. Treat the whole person 6. Know how your brain works and have a plan 7. Family Therapy

Troy has been working in wilderness therapy since 2001. His clinical experience includes working with adults and adolescents with substance abuse and dual diagnosis. Troy began his studies at Brigham Young University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in family sciences. He received his Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University.

Ray’s passion for this work comes from his personal life-changing experiences in the wilderness and a strong belief in the power of mentoring. Through his own remarkable journey, he has gained the experience, insight and passion to help others find their vision for the future and make the successful transition to manhood.

Derek has spent much of the last decade working with individuals to create sustainable life changes. He began facilitating personal growth experiences as a head instructor with Red Cliff Assent in 2001. In 2004, as a senior field guide for Aspen Achievement Academy. Derek’s philosophy is based on the belief that within each person lies undiscovered strengths.

23


The use of Jewish storytelling and Metaphor in Wilderness TherapyNicholas Magle-Haberek, MS, MSW, LSW, Hindy Finman, Rabbi & Anat Moskowitz, RabbiBaMidbar Wilderness Therapy is the first wilderness program to use clinical best practices, adventure- based therapy models and Jewish traditions to create meaningful experiences for our clients. This workshop will explore the use of Jewish storytelling, metaphor and how this is incorporated into our therapeutic model. Join us for storytelling, personal narratives and addressing the important question of how faith-based practices are used in the wilderness therapy field.

Nick has worked for a variety of wilderness and adventure therapy programs over the past 13 years, in a variety of roles including field guide, facilitator, intern, therapist, clinical supervisor and consultant. Nick is currently the primary therapist working with young adults at BaMidbar Wilderness Therapy in Deckers, CO.

Hindy is an avid camp person and community builder. As someone who grew up in a large Chabad family, with strong ties to the Orthodox Jewish community, Hindy recognized the dire need for therapeutic interventions for faith-based communities. Hindy is passionate about creating meaningful wilderness programming for communities where stigma may interfere with access to treatment.

24

Friday Late Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops4 – 5:30 p.m

20+ Years Later: Field Guides reflect on how the wilderness experience shaped their livesDerek Daley, SUDC, Mary Hickey, Mike Petree, MCP, Jesse Quam, Grant Leibersberger, M.Ed, MBA & Jeremy McGeorgeMost former field guides and clients agree that the wilderness therapy experience leaves a lasting impact. Each year, Wilderness Guides and clients leave their time in the field behind and go on to engage with the world in different ways. However, their Wilderness Therapy expe-rience continues to have an impact on their lives long after their last bow drill fire. In this panel discussion former guides and clients offer their stories and perspectives on how the wilderness therapy experience has impacted their lives 20+ years later.

Derek Daley (Panel Moderator) began his career as a field guide for Red Cliff Ascent in 2001. In the following years he worked in various roles for Aspen Achievement Academy, Open Sky and is now a Co-founder at Legacy Outdoor Adventures. He serves as the current marketing chair for the OBH Council and is a passionate advocate of wilderness therapy, committed to the goal of advancing effective wilderness and residential treatment to more diverse demograph-ics. In 2011 he Founded the Loa Fund, a non-profit supporting mental health and addiction treatment. On the weekends he is learning to ski with his seven-year old son and four-year-old daughter, negotiating the dubious hot chocolate to ski-run ratio. “Being a field guide was the most amazing job I ever have, it changed my life 18 years ago. Helping people cultivate pur-pose in their lives often helps us find our own.” -Derek Daley

Mary began her career as a field guide working for Wilderness Quest way back in 1997. She now works at Red Mountain Sedona as the Director of Outreach. As a long-time veteran in the field of adolescent, young adult and family residential treatment, she brings over 20 years of experience to her work at Red Mountain Sedona. In her previous positions Mary served as the Executive Director of TreeHouse Learning Community, a transitional living program for college students in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, Assistant Head of School and Admissions Director of Spring Ridge Academy, an adolescent residential treatment program, and Head Field Instructor for Wilderness Quest, a wilderness therapy program. “Being a Field Guide I learned fundamental truths about connection, authenticity, responsibility and trust. It totally shaped my career.” – Mary Hickey

Mike began his career working as field guide for Red Cliff Ascent back in 1999 and worked in that role for the following 3 years (In perfect transparency, he worked 8 months out of each of the 3 years and should not be credited for spending an entire winter in the field…trust me, he’s been called out on this). He now promotes client growth through outcomes measure-ment and client progress monitoring. He is the founder of Petree Consulting Inc. (PCI), a con-sulting agency and software company working with treatment providers to measure outcomes and monitor client progress. PCI developed the Remote Research Director Dashboard, a tool that organizes data collection systems and saves providers from the need to dedicate full-time staff to research. “I found myself losing sleep over my inability to know if the program changes I was making were doing any good at all. Nobody could tell me how I could really know…so I set out to find out.” -Mike

25

CONTINUED: Derek Daley, SUDC, Mary Hickey, Mike Petree, MCP, Jesse Quam, Grant Leibersberger, M.Ed, MBA & Jeremy McGeorge

Jesse Quam is an experienced clinician and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who joined John Huie & Associates as educational consultant in May 2015. He has served in some of the most effective therapeutic wilderness programs and schools on both the East and West coasts. For seven years, Jesse worked with struggling adolescents and families as senior wilderness instructor and field director for highly successful programs in Utah.

Grant began his career in 1996 at Wilderness Quest, he has since compiled over twenty years of leadership experience helping young people, families, and organizations build a solid foun-dation for success. He is currently a Founding Partner at Mansfield Hall. He attributes almost all of his leadership style and acumen to his years as a field guide. His early and formative field guide experience includes work at Wilderness Quest (1996 to 2000), Prescott College Wilderness Orientation (1996-2000), Catherine Freer Wilderness Therapy (2000-2001), and Blackwater Outdoor Experiences (2001-2004). Grant holds a M.Ed. in Counseling from North-ern Arizona University, an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University, and a BA from Prescott College in Experiential Education. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Saving Teens in Crisis Collaborative and various other charities in his neighborhood of Burlington, Vermont. He is passionate about bringing high quality program-ming to underserved populations. In his free time, Grant enjoys recreating outdoors in every season, seeing live music, and spending time with family, friends, and dogs. “If nobody dies, it’s a success!” -Grant

Jeremy began his work in the deserts of Utah and Arizona, working in wilderness for Aspen Achievement Academy and Adventure Discovery. He then served as a member of the develop-ment teams for leading therapeutic program as they constructed and managed wilderness in-tervention programs and study abroad opportunities in the Berkshires, northern Vermont, and Costa Rica. Immediately prior to joining The Bertram Group Jeremy has served as the Director of Admissions and Development for the King George School in Sutton, Vermont. Based on his broad internal experience working within programs, Jeremy takes a unique and empathetic approach to helping at-risk students and families. He seeks to find new family balance focused on harmony and growth. He employs creative solutions and reflective listening to guide stu-dents and families to the best options available. Jeremy is passionate and driven to provide families with the opportunities, skills, and support to live, learn, and thrive together.

26

Friday Late Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops (cont.)4 – 5:30 p.m

The Obstacle is The Way: How the aftercare choice process can deepen therapeutic work in the wildernessJosh White, Sensei, MA, LCMHC, CGP, Tim Mullins, MA, CMHC, LCPC & John Tobias, MS, ACMHCAs a client approaches transition from wilderness into aftercare their motivation to continue therapeutic work often decreases. The process of choosing aftercare can become distracting and disruptive, diverting the attention of the client and the family from what is “now” to what is “next.” Staying present and continuing to do their work is a challenge for the client and the clinician. Can we approach the process of choosing aftercare in such a way that it changes this dynamic, creating an opportunity to continue to deepen awareness while still preparing for the next step? Can we leverage this new opportunity beyond transition, allowing for continued support from the wilderness therapist without interfering with the transition or creating a counterproductive dependency? In this workshop we will explore how programs can partner in the admission process and beyond to maintain therapeutic momentum and create new opportunities for learning, awareness and growth.

Josh White, Sensei, MA, LCMHC, CGP. Prior to the founding of Red Mountain, Josh served as a Program, Clinical and Executive Director in top treatment programs for adolescents and young adults. Josh is a Senior Instructor and the second-ranking active practitioner of Ten-Chi Kenpo. Josh is one of approximately 250 teachers worldwide authorized to teach in the White Plum Zen tradition.

Tim began working in wilderness therapy as a field instructor, and he feels blessed to have continued that work in wilderness as a therapist. Prior to beginning his current doctoral studies in psychology, Tim received a MA in counseling psychology from Prescott College. In 2005, he completed yoga teacher training in Montana and offered free community classes.

With over fifteen years in wilderness therapy and outdoor education, John’s therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in his experience as a teacher, mentor and guide. John has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Utah and a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, UT.

Double Ball and Other Rockin Native Games (OUTDOOR)Shayne GallagherThis is a physical presentation. A few traditional native games will be described then actually be played! The games played will include Double Ball, Hunter & Rattler, and Keeper of The Fire. All games presented will be simple in terms of equipment needed to play. All can be done with many age groups and populations. All can be added to extant curriculum of most if not all wilderness therapy programs. All are fun! Never underestimate the power of play. During play defenses are eased, personality is revealed, innocence is rediscovered, and the simplicity of human experience is enjoyed.

Shayne has worked continuously in wilderness therapy for more than 28 years and has been a principal designer and developer of four wilderness therapy programs. He discovered Double Ball in 1993 and has been a fan of the game ever since. He has explored many native and primitive games that can be played with minimal equipment on the trail. Shayne is currently the Executive Director of WinGate Wilderness Therapy.

27

Dinner and Jumping Mouse Ceremonyat Red Pine Lodge6 p.m.

Friday evening, take the Gondola to the beautiful mid-mountain Red Pine lodge for a wonderful din-ner, networking, camaraderie and entertainment for everyone. Sure to be one of the high-lights of this year’s symposium, we hope you will join us for this wonderful event. At 7:30pm we will honor and celebrate all field-staff at our annual Jumping Mouse ceremony, and please join us afterwards for dancing and music with DJ Norman Elizondo!

28

Saturday Morning Meeting 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.


Darcy grew up in Greenbrier, Arkansas where she graduated high school and attended Arkansas College in Batesville. After her parents retired, they moved to Enterprise, Utah and Darcy transferred to Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. Darcy has over 21 years of experience working as a mentor and sponsor with adolescents and adults that suffer with the disease of addiction.

Saturday OUTDOOR 6-Hour Workshops9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cueing Events for Behavior ChangeBrett Talbot, Ph.D. & Derek Daley, SUDCIn this interactive workshop we will focus on methods designed to prompt client behavior change. Utilizing the mountain as a backdrop we will explore techniques for processing experiences with groups and individuals. Field guides and clinicians will learn to co-create metaphorically rich dialogue and reflection for clients and groups. We will cover effective tools for engaging groups actively in processing. Participants will leave with new perspectives, tools and ideas to use for debriefing intentional and unpredictable behavior changing opportunities. By understanding the phenomena created through interaction and communication participants we be better prepared to initiate these moments and use them wisely to maximize the benefit. Although teachable moments occur naturally in interaction, we will identify the contextual factors that enhance or impede the approach. We will create an interac-tion-based practice setting on the mountain to provide the setting for training.

Dr. Brett Talbot, PhD is a licensed Psychologist and the Senior Director of Research and Quality at Redcliff Ascent. Prior, Dr. Talbot was a Chief Clinical Officer and an Executive Clinical Director for residential group practices. Dr. Talbot is also faculty at Utah Valley University.

Derek is the Co-founder Legacy Outdoor Adventures. Passionate wilderness therapy advocate committed to advancing treatment to more diverse demographics. Founder of the Loa Fund, a non-profit supporting mental health and addiction treatment. Founder of positive message campaign designed to promote compassion, kindness & gratitude facilitated at High schools, Universities and at the Sundance Film Festival.

29

Saturday OUTDOOR 6-Hour Workshops (cont.)9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Drum Therapy Starts with Making A DrumShayne Gallagher & Sheri GallagherDrum therapy is an ancient approach that uses rhythm to promote healing and self-expression. From the shamans of Mongolia to the Minianka healers of West Africa, therapeutic rhythm techniques have been used for thousands of years to create and maintain physical, mental, and spiritual health. All of this starts with making a drum in the frst place. In this hands-on presentation, participants will make and keep their own Native American frame drum (Wood frame and deerskin rawhide face.) This type of drum can last a lifetime and is easily portable for wilderness therapy uses. The simple process of making items with students, coupled with the student’s enjoyment of using the items themselves, can be a therapeutic accomplishment of the deepest sort. Add drum making to your list of skills and deepen your ability to create a therapeutic alliance with the students you serve.

Sheri started working in the arena of wilderness therapy in 1988. From creating academic curriculum to engineering program wide policies and procedures to working with children in the field, Sheri has been involved in the development and operations of wilderness therapy programs for three decades.

Shayne has worked continuously in wilderness therapy for over 28 years. He has worked more than 1,400 as a field instructor and has designed, developed, and/or operated aspects of several wilderness therapy programs and other treatment programs.

Sheri and Shayne currently guide the operation of WinGate Wilderness Therapy.

Core Elements of Wilderness Rites of PassagePetra Lentz-Snow & Charles Carlin, M.A., LPCMany of the issues which bring clients to wilderness therapy are based on incomplete or self-defeating rites of passage without sufficient guidance or support. This experiential workshop includes a threshold crossing modeled on wilderness rite of passage and requires participants to wear two hats at the same time, being both a participant and also a trainer/guide. We will introduce the core elements used by the School of Lost Borders and explore effective ways that wilderness therapy programs and practitioners can apply in their own settings. Participants will gain conceptual clarity, encouragement, and personal experi-ence for designing programs appropriate to their missions, values, and clients. We will also discuss some of the shadows of this work including cultural appropriation and the challenge of allowing clients to find their own meaning while staying true to the underlying foundations. We then invite participants to an experiential exercise modeled on wilderness rites of passage: naming an intention, crossing a threshold, spending solo time in a wild setting, and returning to the group/community. We conclude with debrief-ing and discussion of applications in participants’ own settings. Please bring proper clothing for a day outside, lunch and water, and something comfortable for sitting on the ground.

Petra is currently serving as executive director of the School of Lost Borders in Big Pine, CA. A certified Naturopath, and Vision Fast Guide of 25 years, she is passionate about training next generation guides as well as integrating and seeding initiatory experiences in modern culture. Petra is a breast cancer survivor and mother of three young adult children. Her special interests are Illness and Aging as initiatory growth opportunities as well as Birth as a Rite of Passage.

Charles Carlin is currently working on a PhD in the Department of Geography at the University of Wis-consin-Madison. His dissertation considers what experiences like the contemporary vision fast ceremony can tell us about our relationship with the world around us. Charles also works as a guide for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and is trained as a wilderness-based psychotherapist.

30

Saturday Morning 3-Hour Workshops9 a.m. – Noon

Family Therapy with OBH populationsMichael Gass, PhD, LMFT, Tony Alvarez, MSW, Hilary Moses, MSW, LCSW & Jessalyn Hobson, MSWThe purpose of this workshop is to offer innovative methods of enriching family therapy pro-cesses through the use of experiential and active treatment techniques. Rather than just focusing on the “talking the talk” part of therapy, this workshop will also provide applied methods of “walking the talk” to use in both individual and group therapy sessions for OBH programs.

Michael A. Gass (Ph.D., LMFT) is a Professor and Coordinator of the world renowned Outdoor Education Program in the College of Health and Human Services at the University of New Hampshire. He is the Co-Coordinator of the MSW/MS Dual Degree Program in Adventure Therapy at UNH. He also is the Research Director for the Outdoor Behavioral Health Care Research Consortium (OBHRC) (obhrc.org).

Tony Alvarez received the 2017 Kurt Hahn Address. He has a long history in AEE, helping build the Therapeutic Adventure Professional Group and presenting regularly at International Conferences and TAPG Best Practices conferences. He serves as lecturer and point person for the use of experiential, adventure and wilderness approaches to social work practice at the University of Michigan School.

Hilary Moses, LCSW served adolescents, young adults and their parents in wilderness therapy from 2001- 2015. As the co-owner of Solutions Parenting Support, she offers parent coaching, transitional support and personal growth opportunities both preventatively and for parents who have children at every stage of therapeutic treatment.

Jessalyn has worked as a family therapist for Elements since 2016. She received her degree from UNH’s Dual Degree Program in 2015 following three years of working as a wilderness field guide.

The Power Project Initiative - “I Am So Offended!!”Tara Stireman, LCSW & Liz Lucarelli, MC, NCC, LPCEver wonder if you just missed an opportunity to address a micro-aggression at work? Or need some ideas about how to be true to yourself while addressing inequality or sexism in a work environment? Maybe you even reacted and then wanted a redo? This fun, interactive experience will include role play, lively conversation and a variety of speakers. Come prepared to honestly explore uncomfortable but important topics surrounding gender, our unique work place and how we address these issues with our clients. Participants will walk away with at least 3 positive, action orientated items they can contribute to their work environment.

Tara has been working with adolescents in the outdoors for over 15 years. Originally from northeastern Ohio, she received her MSW at the University of Utah and has worked as a therapist with adolescent boys at Elements since 2008.

Liz has extensive experience working with preteens and adolescents in their families in wilderness and residential settings. Her journey began as a Field Instructor in 2005. She is currently the Seasons Therapist at SUWS of the Carolina’s where she works with latency aged boys and girls. She is originally from New England but lives in Asheville. She also has a passion for ultra-trail running.

31

Saturday Morning Half-Hour Workshops9 – 11 a.m.(These 4 half-hour presentations will be in a “Ted-Talk” style format)

Talk #1: Evaluating the Outcomes of Family Engagement with Intensive TherapyLaura Mills, PhDPine River Institute is dedicated to understanding the effectiveness of our parent engagement in youth therapy. The research and clinical teams collaborated to develop an evaluation strategy whose outcomes benefit parents, inform staff, and provide a platform for knowledge expansion and exchange. Our strategy explores parental emotional and behav-ioral health and health change, and how progress in these areas impacts youth treatment progression and outcomes. We will share our experience of planning and implementing this strategy. Participants will contribute to discussions about challenges, possible solutions, and next steps.

Laura Mills, Ph.D. (Q.M. Psych). Laura is the Director of Research & Evaluation at Pine River Institute and is dedicated to advancing the field of adolescent health through collaborative research that informs best practices. Her Ph.D. work focused on quantitative techniques that address ‘messy’ clinical data issues. Laura is passionate about gardening, travelling, and photography.

Talk #2: Mindfulness, Attentional Bias, and Adolescent Substance Abuse TreatmentJames Skelton, CSAC, CAI-ITreatment as usual for adolescent substance use disorders often fails to recognize neurological mechanisms which affect treatment outcomes. Attentional bias is intricately linked to cravings, the number one indicator of relapse. Mindfulness meditation techniques work at the heart of addiction cravings and should be utilized more to enhance treatment. Mindfulness is especially helpful for teens that lack maturation and executive functioning skills. An understanding of attentional bias could lead to better treatment outcomes and sustained sobriety when applied to interventions. Participants will be able to teach simple mindfulness meditation technique and explain cravings and the neurological mechanism of attentional bias.

James Skelton is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a Certified ARISE® Interventionist, working with adolescents and their families for seven years in both outpatient and wilderness settings. Currently, he is working on a Master of Social Work.

32

Saturday Morning Half-Hour Workshops9 – 11 a.m.(These 4 half-hour presentations will be in a “Ted-Talk” style format)

Talk #3: The Role of Parents in Young Adults Sustaining RecoveryDiana Clark, JD, MAWhile technically of adult years, many young adults who struggle with Substance Use Disorders and other co-occurring disorders lack the tools and capacity to cope with the demands of recovery and other life challenges. As a result, parents often fill in the gaps of their young adults’ functioning and unwittingly promote continued dysfunction and regression. This session discusses how to engage parents in the treatment and recovery process and the relevant information and support they need to stop “over-functioning” and instead, focus on family recovery. Through the use of a PowerPoint presentation, case studies and worksheets, presenters lead the group to understand the importance of family involvement and the methods to successfully engage parents in the recovery process.

Diana Clark, JD, MA is the Family Outreach Specialist for Turnbridge. She is a renowned recovery advocate for family members of those who struggle with Substance Use Disorders and other mental health concerns. She has authored and facilitated numerous workshops specifically designed for family members and the book Addiction Recovery a Family’s Journey.

Talk #4: Why P and P are not Followed Tyler CarrollNo matter how refined/thought out and trained on a program’s Policy and procedures are they only matter if they are implemented by the guides in the field. This session explores some of the things that can contribute to Policy and Procedure not being followed in the field. The session will give specifics on: Root causes and contributing dynamics, How to cultivate a guide culture that implements Policy, How to effectively train staff, and Case study with review of contributing factors.

Tyler felt the call of the Mountains back in his home state of Alabama. After graduating with his Bachelors in psychology and minor in Sociology in 2007 he entered the guiding world of wilderness therapy and by Christmas Day 2008 began his first week on trail with Aspiro as lead guide. Since those

33

Saturday Morning 1.5-Hour Workshops9 – 10:30 a.m.

Therapists and Field Staff Relationship: How Authenticity and Collaboration Im-proves TreatmentKatelyn BeVard, Ellyn Zografi, MS, LMFT & Trina Grater, MA, ACMHCIn this workshop we will explore the relationship between field staff and wilderness therapists, and how this relationship impacts treatment. Field staff and therapists will be featured through video interviews to share their experiences participating within the treatment team. The presentation will focus on two aspects of the relationship: 1) level of trust and vulnerability to be transparent with each other (authenticity) and 2) level of involvement field staff have in therapy process and therapist has in field staff development (collaboration). Within “authenticity” we will explore how transparency and vulnerability improve the relationship between Therapist and Field staff, ultimately improving the quality of care for participants. Within “collaboration” we will explore the value of field guide involvement in the participant’s therapeutic process, as well as the value of the therapist and field guides being involved in each other’s development process and utilization of feedback.

Katelyn is the Program Director of Evoke at Entrada and has been with the company since 2009. Through her experience in roles as a Field Instructor, Parent Coordinator, Recruiter, Assistant Field Director and Field Director she has gained a versatile understanding of the importance of the treatment team. She has a passion for teamwork and communication and how it enhances organizational health.

Ellyn is a Primary Therapist for Evoke at Entrada, working with young adults of mixed gender. She adds the perspective of working as an outpatient private psychotherapist as well as working in a Mental Health clinic supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Ellyn has grown to appreciate the power of the wilderness in combination with the therapist/field guide relationship.

Trina is a Primary Therapist for Evoke at Entrada, working with adolescent girls. She got her start in Wilderness Therapy in 2009 when she worked for Entrada as a Field Instructor for four years and an assistant therapist for a year. Trina recently returned to Wilderness Therapy, due in part to her deep understanding and appreciation for the unique relationship of the field guide and therapist.

34

Saturday Morning 1.5-Hour Workshops (cont.)10:45 – 12:15 p.m.

Diversity and Inclusion Training for Wilderness Therapy ProfessionalsAJ Frithiof, LCSWCommunities in the United States are filled with social inequalities. As a result, people learn to separate themselves from each other, nurture fear of differences, and thus perpetuate dis-crimination. Even though the negative consequences of discrimination and inequality can be seen through our society, there continues to be significant difficulties in address these issues. This presentation is designed to help professionals addresses these issues in their organiza-tion. Some of the questions that will be answered include: How do you teach about diversity? How do you facilitate an activity that might make some students feel very uncomfortable, or challenge their values, or push them to take a stand for what they believe in? How do you lead a discussion that opens doors, instead of shuts them? This dynamic presentation would be useful for professional seeking to learn more about diversity and inclusion as well as those responsible for training on the topic in their organizations.

AJ Frithiof began working as a wilderness field instructor in 2004, which sparked a passion for working with adolescents and young adults in the wilderness. Currently AJ is the Program Director at RedCliff Ascent. She has a breadth of experience in various roles such as course di-rector, program developer, staff trainer, therapist, recovery specialist, and therapist supervisor.

Lunch BreakNoon – 1:30 p.m.

Lunch not provided.

35

Saturday Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops1:30 – 3 p.m.

Deep in the woods, and only skin deep: Self-Harming Behaviors in Young WomenEmily Thelen, MA, LCPC, CTRS, Bo Bicknell, MSW & Kendra Meiklejohn, MS, CSWDespite powerful movements in the political and social realms, young women remain sur-rounded by constant messaging focused on the superficial, thus creating a fragile sense of self. Fear of vulnerability and relational struggles lead many young women to worry their friends and terrify their parents by seeking out coping mechanisms that only go skin deep. In this interactive workshop we will explore root causes and strategies for exhausting self-harming behaviors using the wilderness container that is unique to our OBHIC industry. Participants will be engaged with strategies on how to support young women and their families in find-ing new perspectives, techniques, and distress tolerance skills that are located in the unique environment of the natural world - in front country and backcountry, in first intervention and continued care settings. We intend to provide resources and facilitate discussion regarding how to empower young women to take a lead role in their own treatment.

Emily received her Masters at Naropa University in Wilderness Therapy. She has worked in the industry with adolescent men and women, families, and young adults in wilderness and continued care settings since 2006 – Emily thrives in helping others explore the threads of brilliant light that is often discovered in wilderness and weaving this growth into the next chapters.

Bo Bicknell MSW draws from clinical experience in wilderness, outpatient, and academic set-tings. Focusing on identity formation and cognitive patterns in relationships and family dy-namics, he is a therapist working with adolescent girls at the True North Wilderness Program in Waitsfield, VT.

Kendra received dual master’s degrees at University of New Hampshire, Social work and Ki-nesiology. Kendra is an EMDR trained therapist and utilizes the wilderness as an ideal setting for trauma informed therapy. She is a primary therapist at Outback Therapeutic Expeditions, facilitating the LIFE program, focused on female empowerment through authenticity, accep-tance, and courage.

36

Saturday Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops (cont.)1:30 – 3 p.m.

The field guides: Who are they?Matt Hoag, PhD & Dan KikkertWe have spent the last 20 years measuring outcome and demonstrating the effectiveness of wilderness therapy. Little attention has been given to examining the field guide, who they are and their background. This research sought to address this void in the literature by examining 169 staff that worked at one program over the last 5 years. We will discuss their identified gender, age, ethnicity, level of education, medical training, and how they were referred to wilderness. We will relate these results to the significant part that field guides play in the treatment process.

Matt is clinical director and partner at Evoke Therapy Programs. He has worked in wilderness therapy for 20 years and received his Ph.D. in Psychology at Brigham Young University. He works with adolescent boys and thrives on the ever-changing dynamics of the wilderness process. He also enjoys doing research and investigating interesting questions.

Dan is an organizational consultant and Evoke Research Fellow. He is a former field instructor and field director and has worked in wilderness therapy since 2012. He is completing his MSAP in industrial organizational psychology through Sacred Heart University.

Hostage Negotiations OR Learner’s Permit: Building Effective Agreements for the Whole Family System When Transitioning HomeKera Miller, MA, LPC, Janet Farnsworth, Sarah Rothstein, LCSWEver sat out in the field and helped a student write up a home contract? Ever wondered what came of it and if it worked out? From a variety of perspectives on the continuum of care, we like to refer to these home contracts as Family Agreements. This helps to emphasize that it is an agreement for clients AND parents to acknowledge and be accountable to, not just the young person. In this experiential workshop we will discuss how to develop a Family Agreement that is logical, reasonable, and enforceable.

Kera, National Clinical Director of Vive Family Support Program, and has been mentoring clients with Vive since 2005. She has worked with adolescents and young adults in varied settings since 1997. She loves hiking, going to live music events, and traveling.

Janet, Executive Director of West Ridge Academy, has worked in residential treatment settings since 1994, with specialty in parent workshops and support programs that help improve outcomes for families. She loves travelling with her husband and chasing around her grandkids.

Sarah, therapist for young adults & adolescent boys at Aspiro Adventure, began her work in therapeutic programs at a therapeutic boarding school, following years of work with adults in inpatient/outpatient care. Sarah is passionate about reuniting families and spending time outdoors with her dogs.

37

Saturday Afternoon 1.5-Hour Workshops (cont.)1:30 – 1 p.m.

“If I only knew then what I know now.” What I would do differently as a wilderness therapistSean Roberts, PhD LPCThis session uses the experiences and observations of the presenter, who spent years work-ing in wilderness therapy and now supports young adults upon discharge, to explore what we could do differently to improve outcomes. We will explore how an increased focus on ac-ceptance in place of symptom reduction and more intentional future planning with exposure exercises could improve functioning. Attendees will be encouraged to focus on the idea that “less is more” as we focus on deep understanding of one’s struggles and solidifying a few key skills for clients. We will discuss how an over-emphasis on “emotional safety” perhaps sets clients up to face regression when they leave and face a more complicated and less controlled social dynamic. We will also look at if we truly encourage differentiation within the family sys-tem or perhaps reinforce unhealthy triangles. Lastly, we will examine what we could do better to prepare clients and families as they transition out of wilderness.

Sean has a PhD in Counseling from Oregon State University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has specialized in working with young adults for the past nine years. He joined Cascade Crest in 2014 after working as a young adult therapist and Assistant Clinical Director at a leading wilderness therapy program. He also enjoys teaching graduate counseling stu-dents at Oregon State University.

Closing Ceremony3 p.m.

Please join us for a brief closing ceremony which will be the concluding event of this year’s Symposium.

Thank you to the 2018 OBH Council Members

dear participant,nicholas magle-haberek, hindy finman, anat moskowitz derek daley, mary hickey, mike...

Documents