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Adventure Therapy for Addiction Recovery: A Holistic Approach to Healing
Author: Dr. Evelyn Reed, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Dr. Evelyn Reed is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a board-certified art therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field of addiction recovery. She has specialized in adventure therapy for addiction recovery for the past decade, conducting extensive research and developing innovative programs integrating wilderness experiences with therapeutic interventions. Her work has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, and she is a frequent speaker at national conferences on addiction treatment and therapeutic recreation.
Keywords: adventure therapy, addiction recovery, wilderness therapy, experiential therapy, outdoor therapy, holistic treatment, substance abuse treatment, mental health, rehabilitation, trauma recovery
1. Introduction: The Rise of Adventure Therapy for Addiction Recovery
Adventure therapy for addiction recovery is a rapidly growing field utilizing outdoor activities and challenging experiences to foster personal growth and lasting change in individuals struggling with substance abuse and other behavioral addictions. Unlike traditional therapeutic models, adventure therapy emphasizes experiential learning, self-discovery, and the development of coping mechanisms within a supportive and challenging environment. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, offering a holistic pathway to recovery. This article will explore the historical context of adventure therapy, examine its current applications in addiction treatment, and discuss its effectiveness and future directions.
2. Historical Context: From Wilderness to Wellness
The roots of adventure therapy can be traced back to early forms of wilderness experiences used for rehabilitation and character building. Early 20th-century programs focused on physical challenges and discipline, often lacking a strong therapeutic component. However, as the understanding of addiction and trauma evolved, so did the approach. The integration of psychological principles and therapeutic techniques with outdoor activities marked a significant shift, leading to the development of modern adventure therapy programs. Outward Bound, established in 1941, played a pivotal role in this evolution, demonstrating the power of challenging experiences to foster self-reliance and resilience. The subsequent integration of therapeutic frameworks like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) further enhanced the efficacy of adventure therapy for addiction recovery.
3. Current Applications: A Multifaceted Approach
Contemporary adventure therapy for addiction recovery incorporates a diverse range of activities tailored to individual needs and goals. These can include:
Wilderness expeditions: Backpacking, rock climbing, kayaking, and other wilderness activities promote teamwork, problem-solving, and the development of coping skills in challenging situations. The isolation and immersion in nature can also foster introspection and self-reflection.
Equine therapy: Working with horses provides opportunities for non-verbal communication and emotional expression. Horses are highly sensitive to human emotions, creating a unique therapeutic relationship that can facilitate healing and self-awareness.
Adventure-based counseling: Activities like ropes courses and trust falls can build self-esteem, foster trust in others, and address issues of risk-taking and impulse control.
Art therapy in nature: Creative expression within a natural setting can help individuals process emotions and experiences related to their addiction, providing a healthy outlet for self-expression.
These activities are not merely recreational; they are carefully integrated with therapeutic interventions, providing opportunities for individuals to confront their challenges, develop new coping mechanisms, and build a stronger sense of self. Adventure therapy for addiction recovery is often combined with traditional therapies like individual and group counseling, creating a comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment.
4. Effectiveness and Research: Evidence-Based Practices
While research on adventure therapy is still evolving, a growing body of evidence supports its effectiveness in addiction recovery. Studies have shown positive outcomes in several areas, including:
Improved self-esteem and self-efficacy: The successful completion of challenging activities fosters a sense of accomplishment and empowers individuals to believe in their ability to overcome obstacles.
Enhanced coping skills: Participants learn to manage stress, regulate emotions, and solve problems in challenging environments, skills directly transferable to everyday life.
Increased motivation and commitment to recovery: The shared experience and supportive environment create a sense of community and shared purpose, strengthening motivation for continued recovery.
Reduced relapse rates: While not a guaranteed outcome, several studies suggest that adventure therapy can contribute to reduced relapse rates by promoting sustained behavioral changes.
5. Challenges and Considerations: Ethical and Practical Aspects
Despite its potential benefits, adventure therapy for addiction recovery also presents challenges. Careful screening of participants is crucial to ensure their physical and mental fitness for the activities. Appropriate risk management and safety protocols are essential to minimize potential risks and ensure a safe and supportive environment. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and maintaining client confidentiality, must be carefully addressed. Accessibility remains a significant challenge; the cost of adventure therapy programs can be prohibitive for some individuals, limiting access to this valuable treatment modality.
6. The Future of Adventure Therapy for Addiction Recovery
The future of adventure therapy for addiction recovery is promising. Continued research is needed to further refine treatment protocols and establish clear guidelines for best practice. Integrating technology, such as virtual reality simulations, offers exciting possibilities for expanding access and tailoring programs to individual needs. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, adventure therapists, and researchers is essential to advance the field and ensure the ethical and effective delivery of adventure therapy for addiction recovery.
7. Conclusion
Adventure therapy for addiction recovery offers a unique and powerful approach to healing. By integrating challenging outdoor experiences with therapeutic interventions, it addresses the multifaceted nature of addiction, promoting holistic well-being and fostering lasting change. While challenges remain, the growing body of evidence supporting its effectiveness, combined with ongoing research and development, points towards a bright future for this innovative treatment modality. The focus should remain on ethical considerations, accessible programs, and evidence-based practices to ensure that the benefits of adventure therapy are available to those who need it most.
FAQs
1. Is adventure therapy suitable for all types of addiction? While adventure therapy can be beneficial for various addictions, its suitability depends on the individual's physical and mental health, the specific addiction, and the program's design.
2. What are the potential risks associated with adventure therapy? Potential risks include physical injuries, emotional distress, and exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. Proper screening, risk management, and qualified professionals mitigate these risks.
3. How long does an adventure therapy program typically last? The duration varies depending on the program and individual needs, ranging from a few days to several weeks or months.
4. What is the cost of adventure therapy for addiction recovery? The cost varies widely depending on the program's location, duration, and activities. Some programs offer financial assistance.
5. Is adventure therapy covered by insurance? Insurance coverage varies widely depending on the provider and policy. It's advisable to check with your insurance company.
6. What are the qualifications of adventure therapists? Qualifications vary, but ideally, adventure therapists should possess relevant experience in addiction treatment and outdoor leadership, with appropriate certifications and licensing.
7. How does adventure therapy differ from traditional therapy? Adventure therapy integrates experiential learning and outdoor activities with traditional therapeutic approaches, offering a holistic and engaging approach.
8. Can adventure therapy be used for co-occurring disorders? Yes, adventure therapy can be particularly effective in addressing co-occurring disorders, such as addiction and trauma, by providing a holistic approach to healing.
9. What is the role of support systems in adventure therapy for addiction recovery? Maintaining contact with support systems is crucial for long-term success. Many programs incorporate family therapy or aftercare planning to reinforce support networks.
Related Articles:
1. "The Effectiveness of Wilderness Therapy for Adolescent Substance Abuse": This article examines the effectiveness of wilderness therapy in treating adolescent substance abuse, providing data on relapse rates and improvements in mental health outcomes.
2. "Equine-Assisted Therapy and its Application in Addiction Recovery": This piece delves into the specific benefits of equine-assisted therapy, highlighting its unique contribution to emotional regulation and self-discovery in addiction recovery.
3. "Adventure-Based Counseling Techniques for Building Resilience in Addiction Recovery": This article focuses on specific techniques used in adventure-based counseling, such as ropes courses and trust exercises, and their impact on building resilience and self-esteem.
4. "Integrating Mindfulness Practices into Adventure Therapy for Addiction Recovery": This article explores the benefits of combining mindfulness practices with adventure therapy, enhancing self-awareness and emotional regulation.
5. "The Role of Nature in Trauma-Informed Addiction Recovery": This article discusses the therapeutic benefits of nature in trauma-informed care, highlighting how nature can support healing from trauma and addiction.
6. "Adventure Therapy and the Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders": This article examines the application of adventure therapy in addressing co-occurring disorders, such as substance use disorder and anxiety or depression.
7. "Long-Term Outcomes of Adventure Therapy for Addiction Recovery: A Longitudinal Study": This article presents findings from a longitudinal study, examining the long-term effectiveness of adventure therapy in maintaining recovery.
8. "Addressing Ethical Considerations in Adventure Therapy Programs for Addiction": This article focuses on the ethical aspects of adventure therapy, including informed consent, risk management, and client confidentiality.
9. "The Cost-Effectiveness of Adventure Therapy Compared to Traditional Addiction Treatment": This article analyzes the cost-effectiveness of adventure therapy compared to other addiction treatment modalities, examining both the direct and indirect costs.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA) – The APA is a highly reputable publisher with extensive experience in publishing research and resources on mental health, including addiction treatment and therapeutic recreation.
Editor: Dr. Mark Johnson, PhD – Dr. Johnson is a renowned expert in behavioral health and has decades of experience editing peer-reviewed journals and books focused on addiction treatment and therapeutic interventions. His expertise ensures the article's scientific rigor and accuracy.
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Adventure Therapy Michael A. Gass, H.L. "Lee" Gillis, Keith C. Russell, 2020-03-11 This revised text describes the theory substantiating adventure therapy, demonstrates best practices in the field, and presents research validating the immediate and long-term effects of adventure therapy. A leading text in the field of adventure therapy, outdoor behavioral healthcare, and wilderness therapy, the book is written by three professionals who have been at the forefront of the field since its infancy. This new edition includes fully updated chapters to reflect the immense changes in the field since the first edition was written in 2010. It serves to provide information detailing what is occurring with clients as well as how it occurs. This book provides an invaluable reference for the seasoned professional and is a required source of information and examination for the beginning professional. It is a great training resource for adventure therapy practices in the field of mental health. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Healing in Action Barney Straus, 2018-09-04 Healing in Action: Adventure-Based Counseling with Therapy Groups is a practical guide for therapists wanting to integrate interactive games and challenges into their work. It provides current research supporting using ABC with trauma survivors and those recovering from addictions, as well as its efficacy with a broader population. Twelve activity-based chapters take the reader through various one-hour sessions of activities based on a particular theme or material used, complete with 50 descriptive photos of groups in action. Therapists will be able to use these activities to help their patients experience in vivo the joy, freedom and playfulness that are the hallmarks of sound mental health. With its combination of sound theoretical material and practical application, this book is a valuable resource for practitioners and graduate students alike. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Outdoor Therapies Nevin J. Harper, Will W. Dobud, 2020-10-05 Drawing on the leading voices of international researchers and practitioners, Outdoor Therapies provides readers with an overview of practices for the helping professions. Sharing outdoor approaches ranging from garden therapy to wilderness therapy and from equine-assisted therapy to surf therapy, Harper and Dobud have drawn common threads from therapeutic practices that integrate connection with nature and experiential activity to redefine the person-in-environment approach to human health and well-being. Readers will learn about the benefits and advantages of helping clients get the treatment, service, and care they need outside of conventional, office-based therapies. Providing readers with a range of approaches that can be utilized across a variety of practice settings and populations, this book is essential reading for students, practitioners, theorists, and researchers in counseling, social work, youth work, occupational therapy, and psychology. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Stories from the Field Will White, 2015-11-15 Wilderness therapy for wayward teens has been in existence, in some form, for over a hundred and thirty years but until now, no comprehensive history existed of the many influences that shaped its evolution. Following up on his doctoral dissertation, Will White looks back and constructs a thorough history from 1860-1988, opening Stories from the Field with the 19th century character camps of New England and progressing over the decades, with the invitation to young women and eventually, adolescents in need of therapeutic help. Will first assimilates the emergent influences of the prevailing social theory, regarding the hazards of leisure in the burgeoning upper class of America, the iconography of outdoor adventures and a few philanthropic visionaries. In this way, Stories from the Field expands the staid history of dates and names, breathing life into the characters and context of old. Will condenses the disparate trends of a century of experimentation into a cogent framework of what is now loosely called wilderness therapy. Atop this rich chronicle of the previously unsung originators, Will then invited recent game-changers to add to the communal story, providing their enhancements and visions to the account of the continuously evolving treatment model of outdoor behavioral healthcare. The other pages hold contemporary Stories from the Field, providing narrative accounts from founders and/or leaders of wilderness therapy organizations developed since 1988 and which provide treatment for families today. These authors have contributed their company stories to help illuminate the diversity and intentions of the present field, confirm the validity and attention that supports the work, and knowing full-well that this inspires tomorrow's innovators to climb higher and doing even better work for the families we serve. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Adventure Therapy Michael A. Gass, H.L. "Lee" Gillis, Keith C. Russell, 2020-03-11 This revised text describes the theory substantiating adventure therapy, demonstrates best practices in the field, and presents research validating the immediate and long-term effects of adventure therapy. A leading text in the field of adventure therapy, outdoor behavioral healthcare, and wilderness therapy, the book is written by three professionals who have been at the forefront of the field since its infancy. This new edition includes fully updated chapters to reflect the immense changes in the field since the first edition was written in 2010. It serves to provide information detailing what is occurring with clients as well as how it occurs. This book provides an invaluable reference for the seasoned professional and is a required source of information and examination for the beginning professional. It is a great training resource for adventure therapy practices in the field of mental health. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Healing in Action Barney Straus, 2018-09-04 Healing in Action: Adventure-Based Counseling with Therapy Groups is a practical guide for therapists wanting to integrate interactive games and challenges into their work. It provides current research supporting using ABC with trauma survivors and those recovering from addictions, as well as its efficacy with a broader population. Twelve activity-based chapters take the reader through various one-hour sessions of activities based on a particular theme or material used, complete with 50 descriptive photos of groups in action. Therapists will be able to use these activities to help their patients experience in vivo the joy, freedom and playfulness that are the hallmarks of sound mental health. With its combination of sound theoretical material and practical application, this book is a valuable resource for practitioners and graduate students alike. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Handbook of Group Counseling and Psychotherapy Janice L. DeLucia-Waack, Cynthia R. Kalodner, Maria Riva, 2013-12-02 The most comprehensive and thoroughly researched text available on this topic, Handbook of Group Counseling and Psychotherapy, Second Edition underscores the notion that group work is improved through increased collaboration between researchers and practitioners. Edited by renowned leaders in the field, this thoroughly updated and revised Second Edition explores current literature and research and offers suggestions for practice in psycho-educational, counseling, and therapy groups. The Handbook is divided into five main sections: current and historical perspectives, best practices, multicultural and diverse groups, groups in special settings, and an introduction to special topics. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Rewired Erica Spiegelman, 2015-04-28 A counselor at one of the most innovative and renowned drug and alcohol treatment centers in the world introduces an empowering approach to addiction recovery that addresses the whole self—mind, body, and spirit This “useful and practical perspective on what you can do to recover from [addiction]” can replace or supplement 12-step programs—at any stage in your recovery (Allen Berger, Ph.D., author of 12 Stupid Things That Mess Up Recovery) Rewired is a new, breakthrough approach to fighting addiction and self-damaging behavior by acknowledging our personal power to bring ourselves back from the brink. Centered on the concept of self-actualization, Rewired will guide you towards not only physical sobriety, but a mental, emotional, and spiritual sobriety by learning to identify key principles within yourself, including authenticity, honesty, gratitude, and understanding a need for solitude. Rewired addresses the whole self; just as addiction affects every part of one’s life, so too must its treatment. By helping us to build a healthy space to support our own recovery, we can rewrite the negative behaviors that result in addiction. Usable in conjunction with or in place of 12-step programs, Rewired allows for a more holistic approach, helping to create a personalized treatment plan that is right for you. Each section in Rewired includes: • Personal anecdotes from the author’s own struggles with alcoholism and addiction • Inspiring true success stories of patients overcoming their addictions • Questions to engage you into finding what is missing from your recovery • Positive affirmations and intentions to guide and motivate With all the variables, both physical and emotional, that play into overcoming addiction, Rewired enables us to stay strong and positive as we progress on the path to recovery. Rewired teaches patience and compassion, the two cornerstones of a new, humanist approach to curing addiction. Remember, addicts are not broken people that need to be fixed—they just have a few crossed wires. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: I Don't Smoke! Joseph Cruse, 2010-01-04 For those addicted to nicotine, the thought of being able to quit smoking and have fun while doing it has seemed impossible—until now. I Don't Smoke! offers a very different approach to smoking cessation: an approach that focuses on the smoker, not the nicotine; an approach that looks at quitting as a joyous adventure; an approach that will make smokers laugh and feel good while they free themselves from their addiction; an approach that works. Dr. Joseph Cruse, founding medical director of the Betty Ford Center, applies addiction recovery techniques in this guidebook that will help every addicted smoker to announce with confidence, I don't smoke!—and mean it. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Slaying the Dragon: The History of Addiction Treatment and Recovery in America William L. White, 2014-07-01 This is the remarkable story of America's personal and instituional responses to alcoholism and other addictions. It is the story of mutual aid societies: the Washingtonians, the Blue Ribbon Reform Clubs, the Ollapod Club, the United Order of Ex-Boozers, the Jacoby Club, Alcoholics Anonymous and Women for Sobriety. It is a story of addiction treatment institutions from the inebriate asylums and Keeley Institutes to Hazelden and Parkside. It is the story of evolving treatment interventions that range from water cures and mandatory sterilization to aversion therapies and methadone maintenance. William White has provided a sweeping and engaging history of one of America's most enduring problems and the profession that was birthed to respond to it -- BACK COVER. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Treating Substance Abuse Scott T. Walters, Frederick Rotgers, 2013-10-01 This state-of-the-art text and clinical resource captures the breadth of current knowledge about substance abuse and its treatment. For each of the major evidence-based treatment approaches, a chapter on basic assumptions and theories is followed by a chapter on clinical applications, including illustrative case material. Expert contributors cover motivational, contingency management, cognitive-behavioral, 12-step, family, and pharmacological approaches. Concluding chapters discuss effective ways to integrate different treatments in a range of clinical settings. New to This Edition*Reflects significant advances in research and clinical practice. *Chapter on the biology of substance use disorders. *Chapter on an additional treatment setting: primary care.*Chapter on case management. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Drugs, Brains, and Behavior , 2007 |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Addiction and Virtue Kent Dunnington, 2011-07-26 In this interdisciplinary work, Kent Dunnington brings the neglected resources of philosophical and theological analysis to bear on the problem of addiction. Drawing on the insights of Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas, he formulates a compelling alternative to the two dominant models of addiction--addiction as disease and addiction as choice. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Addiction and Art Patricia B. Santora, Margaret L. Dowell, Jack E. Henningfield, 2010-06-01 Highly Commended in Psychiatry, 2011 BMA Medical Book Awards. British Medical Association Addiction to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs is one of the major public health issues of our time. It accounts for one of every five deaths in the United States and costs approximately one-half trillion dollars per year in health care expenditures and lost productivity. Its human costs are untold and perhaps uncountable. Addiction and Art puts a human face on addiction through the creative work of individuals who have been touched by it. The art included here presents unique stories about addiction. Many pieces are stark representations of life on the edge. Others are disturbing contemplations of life, meaning, and death. Some even reflect the allure of addiction and a fondness for substance abuse. A panel of addiction scientists, artists, and professionals from the art world selected the 61 pieces included here from more than 1,000 submissions. Accompanied by a written statement from the artist, each creation is emblematic of the destructive power of addiction and the regenerative power of recovery. Stunning and occasionally unsettling, this unique portfolio reveals addiction art as a powerful complement to addiction science. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Addiction Recovery Skills Workbook Suzette Glasner-Edwards, 2015-12-01 An Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) Self-Help Book Recommendation. Winner of the 4Th International Beverly Hills Book Awards in the category of Addiction & Recovery! Is your addiction taking control of your life? This book provides an integrative, seven-step program to help you finally overcome drug and alcohol addiction, once and for all. If you struggle with addiction, seeking treatment is a powerful, positive first step toward eventual recovery. But gaining an understanding of the causes of addiction—such as feelings of helplessness or loss of control—is also crucial for recovery. In this book, addiction expert Suzette Glasner-Edwards offers evidence-based techniques fusing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based relapse prevention to help you move past your addictive behaviors. On the long road to addiction recovery, you need as many tools as possible to help you stay sober and reach your destination. That’s why this is the first book to combine research-proven motivational techniques, CBT, and mindfulness-based strategies to help you create your own unique recovery plan. The book can be used on its own or as an adjunct to rehab or therapy. It also makes a wonderful resource for loved ones and professionals treating addiction. If you're ready to take that important first step toward recovery, this book can help you beat your addiction and get back to living a full, meaningful life. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment Peter M. Miller, 2009-07-08 Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment provides a state-of-the-art compilation of assessment and treatment practices with proven effectiveness. A substantial body of evidence is presented to provide students, academics, and clinicians with specific science-based treatments that work. The book includes contributions by well-known researchers on addiction treatment and explicit case examples. Written at a level appropriate for a variety of audiences, research studies are discussed but highly sophisticated knowledge in research methodology is not required. - Treatments that work - Explicit case examples - Contributions by well-known researchers on addiction treatment - Simple ways to evaluate treatment effectiveness |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Mindfulness and Surfing Sam Bleakley, 2017-03-02 Mindfulness and Surfing casts a fresh perspective on this popular sport, and explores how riding the waves can be the ultimate meditation. Engaging author Sam Bleakley takes us on a soulful journey across the tideline of his personal and philosophical travels. Through lunar cycles and river surfing to the Taoism of nature, he reveals an acute awareness of what the oceans can tell us about our place in the natural world. Meditating on one of natureâ??s greatest elements â?? its salty swells, flow and peaks â?? he shares life lessons in mindfulness that will be relished by surfer and non-surfer alike. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: We Are the Luckiest Laura McKowen, 2022-01-25 “We Are the Luckiest is a masterpiece. It’s the truest, most generous, honest, and helpful sobriety memoir I’ve read. It’s going to save lives.” — Glennon Doyle, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Love Warrior: A Memoir What could possibly be “lucky” about addiction? Absolutely nothing, thought Laura McKowen when drinking brought her to her knees. As she puts it, she “kicked and screamed . . . wishing for something — anything — else” to be her issue. The people who got to drink normally, she thought, were so damn lucky. But in the midst of early sobriety, when no longer able to anesthetize her pain and anxiety, she realized that she was actually the lucky one. Lucky to feel her feelings, live honestly, really be with her daughter, change her legacy. She recognized that “those of us who answer the invitation to wake up, whatever our invitation, are really the luckiest of all.” Here, in straight-talking chapters filled with personal stories, McKowen addresses issues such as facing facts, the question of AA, and other people’s drinking. Without sugarcoating the struggles of sobriety, she relentlessly emphasizes the many blessings of an honest life, one without secrets and debilitating shame. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Heart of Addiction Lance Dodes, 2010-09-14 Nobody has had an answer for why people with addictions continue to repeat them -- until now. For more than twenty years, distinguished psychiatrist Dr. Lance Dodes has been successfully helping people master their addictions -- alcoholism, compulsive gambling, smoking, sexual addiction, and more with a radical approach. Dr. Dodes describes how all addictions have, at their heart, unrecognized emotional factors that explain: Why we feel the impulse Why we feel it when we do What alternatives (really) work in that critical moment In this refreshing book filled with compelling case studies, Dr. Dodes debunks several such widely accepted myths as: Addictions are fundamentally a physical problem. People with addictions are different from other people. You have to hit bottom before you can get well. You are wasting your time if you ask why you have an addiction. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Understanding the High-Functioning Alcoholic Sarah A. Benton, 2009-02-27 Who is the typical alcoholic among the 12.5 million living in the United States now? Many, if not most of us when asked that question, would envision a skid row bum or someone at least out of work or with little education locked into a low-skill, low-paying job. But that is not accurate, according to the results of a national study released in June, 2007 by the National Institutes of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The NIAAA determined that alcoholics in the United States really fall into five subtypes, including nearly 20 percent who are highly functional alcoholics, well-educated with good incomes. They include corporate presidents, powerful politicians, police, lawyers, doctors, scientists, and other highly-skilled, highly-educated people who are middle- to high-income and by most accounts successful. In this unprecedented book, mental health counselor Sarah Benton takes us into the worlds and minds of so-called high-functioning alcoholics, to understand how people so intelligent and achievement-oriented get drawn into states in which they secretly cannot control their liquor consumption but still manage to excel in their careers. The book includes a look at celebrity alcoholics like singer Eric Clapton and actor/comedian Robin Williams, as well as alcoholics in high positions including Chris Albrecht, former Chairman and CEO of HBO. Other high-profile people included in this book are Miss USA 2007 Tara Conner and football legend Joe Namath. With her own story of alcoholism and her recovery woven into the text, Benton takes us into the lives and challenges of these well-educated and successful people, seeking to understand how, when, and why they became addicted, as well as the reasons their alcoholism is, for most, so hard to admit, cope with, and recover from. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Parallel Process Krissy Pozatek, 2010-12 For many parents of troubled teenagers, a therapeutic program that takes the child from the home for a period of time offers some respite from the daily tumult of acting out, lies, and tension that has left the family under siege. However, just as the teenager is embarking on a journey of self-discovery, skill-development, and emotional maturation, so parents too need to use this time to recognize that their own patterns may have contributed to their family's downward spiral. This is The Parallel Process. Using case studies garnered from her many years as an adolescent and family therapist, Krissy Pozatek shows parents of pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults how they can help their children by attuning to emotions, setting limits, not rushing to their rescue, and allowing them to take responsibility for their actions, while recognizing their own patterns of emotional withdrawal, workaholism, and of surrendering their lives and personalities to parenting. The Parallel Process is an essential primer for all parents, whether of troubled teens or not, who are seeking to help the family stay and grow together as they negotiate the potentially difficult teenage years. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Help at Any Cost Maia Szalavitz, 2006 The troubled-teen industry, with its scaremongering and claims of miraculous changes in behavior through harsh discipline, has existed in one form or another for decades, despite a dearth of evidence supporting its methods. And the growing number of programs that make up this industry are today finding more customers than ever. Maia Szalavitz's Help at Any Cost is the first in-depth investigation of this industry and its practices, starting with its roots in the cultlike sixties rehabilitation program Synanon and Large Group Awareness Training organizations likeest in the seventies; continuing with Straight, Inc., which received Nancy Reagan's seal of approval in the eighties; and culminating with a look at the World Wide Association of Specialty Programs-the leading force in the industry today-which has begun setting up shop in foreign countries to avoid regulation. Szalavitz uncovers disturbing findings about these programs' methods, including allegation of physical and verbal abuse, and presents us with moving, often horrifying, first-person accounts of kids who made it through-as well as stories of those who didn't survive. The book also contains a thoughtfully compiled guide for parents, which details effective treatment alternatives. Weaving careful reporting with astute analysis, Maia Szalavitz has written an important and timely survey that will change the way we look at rebellious teens-and the people to whom we entrust them. Help at Any Cost is a vital resource with an urgent message that will draw attention to a compelling issue long overlooked. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Five Love Languages Gary Chapman, 2009-12-17 Marriage should be based on love, right? But does it seem as though you and your spouse are speaking two different languages? #1 New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman guides couples in identifying, understanding, and speaking their spouse's primary love language-quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. By learning the five love languages, you and your spouse will discover your unique love languages and learn practical steps in truly loving each other. Chapters are categorized by love language for easy reference, and each one ends with simple steps to express a specific language to your spouse and guide your marriage in the right direction. A newly designed love languages assessment will help you understand and strengthen your relationship. You can build a lasting, loving marriage together. Gary Chapman hosts a nationally syndicated daily radio program called A Love Language Minute that can be heard on more than 150 radio stations as well as the weekly syndicated program Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, which can both be heard on fivelovelanguages.com. The Five Love Languages is a consistent New York Times bestseller - with over 5 million copies sold and translated into 38 languages. This book is a sales phenomenon, with each year outselling the prior for 16 years running! |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Beyond Addiction Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens, Nicole Kosanke, Stephanie Higgs, 2014-02-18 The most innovative leaders in progressive addiction treatment in the US offer a groundbreaking, science-based guide to helping loved ones overcome addiction problems and compulsive behaviors. The most innovative leaders in progressive addiction treatment in the US offer a groundbreaking, science-based guide to helping loved ones overcome addiction problems and compulsive behaviors. Beyond Addiction eschews the theatrics of interventions and tough love to show family and friends how they can use kindness, positive reinforcement, and motivational and behavioral strategies to help their loved ones change. Drawing on forty collective years of research and decades of clinical experience, the authors present the best practical advice science has to offer. Delivered with warmth, optimism, and humor, Beyond Addiction defines a new, empowered role for friends and family and a paradigm shift for the field. Learn how to tap the transformative power of relationships for positive change, guided by exercises and examples. Practice what really works in therapy and in everyday life, and discover many different treatment options along with tips for navigating the system. And have hope: this guide is designed not only to help someone change, but to help someone want to change. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Outdoor Adventure Pursuits Alan W. Ewert, 1989 |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Integral Recovery John Dupuy, 2013-05-01 Brings Integral Theory to addiction treatment, offering a more holistic vision of recovery and powerful practices for achieving it. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Islands of Healing Jim Schoel, Dick Prouty, Paul Radcliffe, 1988 A guide to setting up an Adventure Based Counseling proegram and outlining the program. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Sober Siblings Patricia Olsen, Petros Levounis, 2008-07 An empowering, practical guide to help the brothers and sisters of alcoholics-by a journalist and sibling of two alcoholics, and an addiction specialist |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Seven Paths Anasazi Foundation, 2013-08-06 This enhanced edition of The Seven Paths contains 20 minutes of exclusive video interviews with Good Buffalo Eagle, co-founder of ANASAZI Foundation, and his sons Thunder Voice Eagle and Gentle Wind Eagle. This gives the reader a glimpse of the ANASAZI trail and greater insight into what it means to live the Path of WE. People have moved away from Mother Earth, bringing heartache, pain, and other maladies of the modern age. The “self-help” movement claims to offer peace and fulfillment to individuals, but this solitary approach takes us only so far. Ultimately, it is in communion with our fellow beings and the natural world that we are made whole. We need to leave the path of Me and follow the path of We. This poetic, evocative story presents the meditations of an ancient Anasazi tribesman who rejects his family and sets off on a journey through the desert. He walks seven paths, each teaching a lesson symbolized by an element of the natural world: light, wind, water, stone, plants, animals, and, finally, the unity of all beings with the Creator. The Seven Paths reveals a source of wisdom, restoration, and renewal familiar to native people but lost to the rest of us, seven elements among nature that combine to mend human hearts. Filmed against the backdrop of the beautiful and dramatic Arizona desert, the thirteen videos expand on the deeper messages of the book. ANASAZI founder Good Buffalo Eagle reflects on the profound gift of choice we are all granted, how we transform ourselves by lifting others up, what happens when we recognize the seeds of greatness in ourselves and others, how nature teaches us, and how we find our belonging place. His son Gentle Wind Eagle explains why a heart at peace can always overcome a heart at war. And his son Thunder Voice Eagle shares his moving personal experiences walking each of the seven paths. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Journey of the Heroic Parent Brad M. Reedy, 2016-01-19 Raising a child struggling with mental health issues, addiction, depression, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders or even just teen angst can be frightening and confusing. When all you've done is not enough, when your child seems lost and you feel inept and impotent, Dr Reedy can help you take the necessary steps to find your child, not with cursory cures or snappy solutions, but rather by effecting positive change in your own behaviour. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Red Road to Wellbriety White Bison, Inc, 2006-01-01 Time and again our Elders have said that the 12 Steps of AA are just the same as the principles that our ancestors lived by, with only one change. When we place the 12 Steps in a circle then they come into alignment with the circle teachings that we know from many of our tribal ways. When we think of them in a circle and use them a little differently, then the words will be more familiar to us. This book is about a Red Road, Medicine Wheel Journey to Wellbriety--to become sober and well in a Native American cultural way.--Back cover. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Addiction and Change, First Edition Carlo C. DiClemente, 2003-04-02 The stages-of-change model has become widely known as a framework for conceptualizing recovery. Less well known are the processes that drive movement through the stages or how the stages apply to becoming addicted. From Carlo C. DiClemente, codeveloper of the transtheoretical model, this book offers a panoramic view of the entire continuum of addictive behavior change. The author illuminates the common path that individuals travel as they establish and reinforce new patterns of behavior, whether they are developing an addiction or struggling to free themselves from one, and regardless of the specific addictive behavior. The book addresses crucial questions of why, when, and how to intervene to bolster recovery in those already addicted and reach out effectively to people at risk. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Group Treatment for Substance Abuse, Second Edition Mary Marden Velasquez, Cathy Crouch, Nanette Stokes Stephens, Carlo C. DiClemente, 2015-10-22 The leading manual on group-based treatment of substance use disorders, this highly practical book is grounded in the transtheoretical model and emphasizes the experiential and behavioral processes of change. The program helps clients move through the stages of change by building skills for acknowledging a problem, deciding to act, developing and executing a plan, and accomplishing other critical tasks. The expert authors provide step-by-step guidelines for implementing the 35 structured sessions, along with strategies for enhancing motivation. In a large-size format with lay-flat binding for easy photocopying, the volume includes 58 reproducible handouts. Purchasers get access to a Web page where they can download and print the reproducible materials. New to This Edition *Reflects significant developments in research and clinical practice. *Eight new sessions focusing on the brain and substance use, gratitude, self-control, mindfulness, acceptance, and more. *Updated discussions of motivational interviewing and the use of cognitive-behavioral techniques with groups. *41 of the 58 handouts are new or revised; all are now downloadable. See also Substance Abuse Treatment and the Stages of Change, Second Edition, by Gerard J. Connors et al., which explores how the transtheoretical model can inform treatment planning and intervention in diverse clinical contexts. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: DHHS Publication No. (ADM). , 1985 |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Recovery Russell Brand, 2017-10-03 A guide to all kinds of addiction from a star who has struggled with heroin, alcohol, sex, fame, food and eBay, that will help addicts and their loved ones make the first steps into recovery “This manual for self-realization comes not from a mountain but from the mud...My qualification is not that I am better than you but I am worse.” —Russell Brand With a rare mix of honesty, humor, and compassion, comedian and movie star Russell Brand mines his own wild story and shares the advice and wisdom he has gained through his fourteen years of recovery. Brand speaks to those suffering along the full spectrum of addiction—from drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and sugar addictions to addictions to work, stress, bad relationships, digital media, and fame. Brand understands that addiction can take many shapes and sizes and how the process of staying clean, sane, and unhooked is a daily activity. He believes that the question is not “Why are you addicted?” but What pain is your addiction masking? Why are you running—into the wrong job, the wrong life, the wrong person’s arms? Russell has been in all the twelve-step fellowships going, he’s started his own men’s group, he’s a therapy regular and a practiced yogi—and while he’s worked on this material as part of his comedy and previous bestsellers, he’s never before shared the tools that really took him out of it, that keep him clean and clear. Here he provides not only a recovery plan, but an attempt to make sense of the ailing world. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Off the Rails Susan Burrowes, 2018 In this eye-opening book about treating teen addiction, fifteen-year-old Hannah and her mother, Susan, share in their own words the raw and honest realities of their family's struggles, the controversial treatment programs they tried, and their insights into what finally led to Hannah's recovery. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Alcohol Addiction: A Simple No Nonsense Alcohol Addiction Treatment Plan (An Essential Guide to Strategies for Highly Effective Alcohol Addiction Recovery) Travis Windham, 101-01-01 Alcoholism or alcohol abuse is a drinking problem that does not only affect the person but also the people around him. Alcohol addiction can negatively affect an individual’s medical, social, and legal life. It is also important to recognize the symptoms as early as possible and seek treatment immediately. The road to recovery might not be easy but it is highly possible. This book goes into step by step strategy that will help you to find the way to rely on your own strength and on the encouragement of the people around you. Here is a preview of what you'll learn... • Do you have a drinking problem? • Admission of your drinking problem • Commitment to stop drinking • Preparation for change • Withdraw from drinking safely • Lifestyle changes • Treatment and recovery • Much, much more! This book contains proven steps and strategies on how to help you control alcohol addiction and help combat damages that this addiction might have caused to your body system. It’s not too bad to drink, but it becomes harmful and dangerous when you take too much of it. Also, it’s important to understand the basic concept of alcohol addiction, this way it would be easier to control and stop the effects. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: a Research-Based Guide National Drug Abuse (NIDA), 2018-05-28 Drug addiction is a complex illness. It is characterized by intense and, at times, uncontrollable drug craving, along with compulsive drug seeking and use that persist even in the face of devastating consequences. This update of the National Institute on Drug Abuse's Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment is intended to address addiction to a wide variety of drugs, including nicotine, alcohol, and illicit and prescription drugs. It is designed to serve as a resource for healthcare providers, family members, and other stakeholders trying to address the myriad problems faced by patients in need of treatment for drug abuse or addiction. Addiction affects multiple brain circuits, including those involved in reward and motivation, learning and memory, and inhibitory control over behavior. That is why addiction is a brain disease. Some individuals are more vulnerable than others to becoming addicted, depending on the interplay between genetic makeup, age of exposure to drugs, and other environmental influences. While a person initially chooses to take drugs, over time the effects of prolonged exposure on brain functioning compromise that ability to choose, and seeking and consuming the drug become compulsive, often eluding a person's self-control or willpower. But addiction is more than just compulsive drug taking-it can also produce far reaching health and social consequences. For example, drug abuse and addiction increase a person's risk for a variety of other mental and physical illnesses related to a drug-abusing lifestyle or the toxic effects of the drugs themselves. Additionally, the dysfunctional behaviors that result from drug abuse can interfere with a person's normal functioning in the family, the workplace, and the broader community. Because drug abuse and addiction have so many dimensions and disrupt so many aspects of an individual's life, treatment is not simple. Effective treatment programs typically incorporate many components, each directed to a particular aspect of the illness and its consequences. Addiction treatment must help the individual stop using drugs, maintain a drug-free lifestyle, and achieve productive functioning in the family, at work, and in society. Because addiction is a disease, most people cannot simply stop using drugs for a few days and be cured. Patients typically require long-term or repeated episodes of care to achieve the ultimate goal of sustained abstinence and recovery of their lives. Indeed, scientific research and clinical practice demonstrate the value of continuing care in treating addiction, with a variety of approaches having been tested and integrated in residential and community settings. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: Group Psychotherapy with Addicted Populations Philip J. Flores, Jeffrey Roth, Barney Straus, 2023-06-09 This newly updated and streamlined edition of Group Psychotherapy with Addicted Populations provides proven strategies for combating alcohol and drug addiction through group psychotherapy. The interventions discussed in the book build on a foundation of addiction as an attachment disorder rooted in the understanding of addiction as a family disease. An appreciation of group and organizational dynamics is used to address the complex experience of developmental trauma that underlies addiction. Having identified the essential theoretical underpinnings of supporting recovery from addiction in Part One, the second half of the book gives a thorough nuts and bolts description of constructing a psychotherapy group and engaging productively in the successive phases of its development from initiation of treatment to termination. The book concludes with specific recommendations for group psychotherapists to increase their competence with groups, deepen their appreciation of group and organizational dynamics and develop a community of support for their own well-being. These methods are important for psychotherapists working with addicted populations who are inexperienced with group psychotherapy as well as seasoned group psychotherapists wishing to enhance their work. |
| adventure therapy for addiction recovery: The Wim Hof Method Wim Hof, 2022-04-14 THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING PHENOMENOM 'I've never felt so alive' JOE WICKS 'The book will change your life' BEN FOGLE My hope is to inspire you to retake control of your body and life by unleashing the immense power of the mind. 'The Iceman' Wim Hof shares his remarkable life story and powerful method for supercharging your strength, health and happiness. Refined over forty years and championed by scientists across the globe, you'll learn how to harness three key elements of Cold, Breathing and Mindset to master mind over matter and achieve the impossible. 'Wim is a legend of the power ice has to heal and empower' BEAR GRYLLS 'Thor-like and potent...Wim has radioactive charisma' RUSSELL BRAND |
Contact Us | MI Credit Union Customer Service | Adventure CU
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Grandville, MI Credit Union Branch | Home Equity Loan | Adventure
See how much you can borrow on a Home Equity Loan for a home improvement with an expert from Adventure Credit Union's Grandville, MI branch. Visit Us.
Contact Us | MI Credit Union Customer Service | Adventure CU
Reach out to Adventure Credit Union in MI for all your financial needs and inquiries. Contact us to get in touch with a customer service representative.
Adventure Credit Union | MI Checking & Savings Accounts | Loans
Adventure Credit Union is a full-service financial institution, serving the State of Michigan. Explore our free and high-yield checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit, auto …
Online Bill Pay | MI Credit Union Online Banking | Adventure CU
Adventure Credit Union in MI offers an easy way to manage your money and pay monthly bills with online bill pay. Enroll in online banking to get started!
Frequent Asked Questions | MI Credit Union FAQs | Adventure CU
Adventure Credit Union in MI wants to ensure all of your financial needs are met and your questions are answered. View all of our FAQs on our website.
Grand Rapids, MI Credit Union Branch | Auto Loans | Adventure
Looking for an auto loan or to open an account? The experts at Adventure Credit Union's Grand Rapids, MI Branch can help you get started. Visit us today.
Greater Grand Rapids & Lansing, MI Locations | Adventure CU
Adventure Credit Union has a variety of convenient branches located throughout Greater Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan. Find a location near you.
Mobile Banking App | MI Credit Union Digital Banking | Adventure
Adventure Credit Union in MI makes digital banking easy with our mobile banking app where you can use features like credit sense and others. Download now.
Rates | MI Credit Union Account Rates | Adventure Credit Union
May 29, 2025 · Adventure Credit Union in MI offers members competitive rates on checking, savings accounts, loans and more. Visit our website to see all of our rates.
Online Banking
Sign in to Adventure Credit Union's online banking platform for convenient access to your accounts.
Grandville, MI Credit Union Branch | Home Equity Loan | Adventure
See how much you can borrow on a Home Equity Loan for a home improvement with an expert from Adventure Credit Union's Grandville, MI branch. Visit Us.
