Adventure Therapy ─ Theory, Research, and Practice

The evolution and history of adventure therapy, as chronicled in the second chapter of this book, well demonstrates how far this field has evolved from a “divergent therapy” into an efficacious form of therapy that engages clients on cognitive, affective, and behavioral levels. Adventure Therapy is written by three professionals who have been at the forefront of the field since its infancy. The theory, techniques, research, and case studies they present are the cutting edge of this field.
The authors focus on:• the theory substantiating adventure therapy • illustrations that exemplify best practices • the research validating the immediate as well as long-term effects of adventure therapy, when properly conducted.
This book is the leading academic text, professional reference, and training resource for adventure therapy practices in the field of mental health. It is appropriate for a wide range of audiences, including beginner and experienced therapists, as well as graduate students.

Michael A. Gass, PhD, is a Professor and Coordinator of the Outdoor Education Program in the College of Health and Human Services at the University of New Hampshire, and a licensed marriage and family therapist.
H.L. “Lee” Gillis, PhD, is Professor and Chair of Psychological Science at Georgia College, and a licensed psychologist.
Keith C. Russell, PhD, is a Professor in the Recreation Program at Western Washington University.

Meyer, Foreword. Introduction. A History of Adventure Therapy. A Psychotherapeutic Foundation for Adventure Therapy. Foundations. Exploring the Foundation of Nature's Role in Adventure Therapy. Adventure Therapy Models. Assessment in Adventure Therapy. Doing Adventure Therapy. Risk Management of Adventure Therapy Programs. Adventure Therapy Competencies. Supervision. Adventure Therapy Ethics. Research and Evaluation. A View of the Future for Adventure Therapy. Appendix A: Risk Management of Adventure Therapy Programs. Appendix B: Adventure Therapy Competencies. Appendix C: Adventure Therapy Ethics.