Self Discovery Programs
Self-discovery is the process of introspection and self-exploration that allows people to uncover their true selves. It involves a deep dive into one's thoughts, feelings, desires, and motivations. Self-discovery is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey that evolves throughout one's life. Outdoor Therapeutics develops unique, intentional programming to guide people in this work. Programs include:
SINGLE DAY HIKES AND WALKING GROUPS
Studies show that walking in nature is highly beneficial for reducing stress, boosting mood, increasing heart health, and lowering anxiety and depression. We leverage these supports during our walking and hiking groups to maximize health benefits of our participants. Trips occur throughout the DELMARVA region and range in length from 1 hour to a full day.
VISION FASTS / RITES OF PASSAGE
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Vision fasts and other rites of passage ceremonies are traditionally rooted in earth-based cultures and practices enacted out in the wild. Our programs are rooted in these traditions for participants ages 16+ to support them in marking important life transitions or to gain insight about intentions important to them. These programs involve ritual activities and teachings designed to strip individuals of previous roles and ways of thinking and to prepare them for new ways of being in the world.
SELF-DISCOVERY WITH HORSES
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In addition to equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP), we provide short-term, non-clinical experiences with horses to support self insight. These experiences involve a collaborative interaction between program participants, a wilderness guide, an animal specialist, and a trained horse. Common goals of equine-assisted programs are to help people find relief from stress, improve communication skills, or to gain insights about problems of interest.
COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH BOOK CLUBS
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We sponsor public book club events to do our part in addressing social isolation, normalizing discussions about mental health, and supporting the community in self-healing with group support. Groups are typically 6-8 weeks long with 60-90 minutes meetings. Meeting locations are at local community spaces, including coffee shops, libraries, and outdoor public spaces when weather permits.
MULTI-DAY GUIDED DAY HIKES AND BACKPACKING
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We sponsor 3-day group backpacking and hiking trips designed to help participants leave their routines and habits behind to experience what it means to be more present and deeply connected with themselves and nature. Trips cater to beginner and intermediate backpacking levels and are facilitated by staff with wilderness guide, wilderness first aid, and nature-based therapy training.
"The fast and my time in nature was a reminder that I am never alone and reconnecting with nature on a regular basis is sooo necessary." - Faster, Age 51
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DIRT THERAPY FOR TEENS
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Gardening has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, build self-efficacy and promote productivity. Research shows that spending just a few minutes outdoors, surrounded by grass, trees, and plants can boost a teen’s ability to focus and concentrate. Building on this science, we offer periodic 10-week horticultural therapy programs for teens ages 13-17. Program offerings can be found on our calendar as we have staff to facilitate them.
NATURE-BASED RETREATS
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We build nature-based retreats for professionals in high-burnout industries to help them access solitude, perspective, and the present moment. Retreats focus on the physiology of stress, the detriments of productivity culture, the science of nature for reversing burnout, and solution-focused strategies for reclaiming time & energy in life. Retreats are available to the general public on our calendar or they can be especially designed to fit your organization's needs.
