PIcture slideshow of previous expeditions.
22-day program brochure
Application

Clinical research has repeatedly demonstrated the therapeutic benefits of wilderness settings, as well as in adventure-based activities.  Wilderness therapy offers an alternative approach to traditional, office-based “talk therapy.”  BOE's 22-day expedition combines wilderness living and adventure-based activities with individual, group, and family therapy to create a positive environment for personal growth and development.

OUR APPROACH
Unlike boot camp/military programs, BOE's therapeutic approach is to build upon our participants’ strengths, not break down participants and then re-build.  We believe our participants are bright individuals, possessing many strengths, and we see the value in helping them recognize those individual strengths. 

FULL TIME THERAPY IN THE FIELD
BOE is one of only a select few programs in which a master’s level therapist accompanies the group on the entire expedition, and facilitates both individual and group sessions. Group therapy is employed throughout the expedition due to its natural ability to encourage strong peer identification and group accountability.  Journal writing allows time for personal, reflective exploration.  Individual therapy sessions offer further opportunities for processing the experience. 

The 22-day expedition serves adolescents and young adults 14-28 years of age.  Most of our participants have experienced one or more of the following:

• Low Self-Esteem
• ADHD/ADD
• Bi-Polar Disorder
• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• Substance Abuse
• Learning Disabilities
• Behavioral Problems
• Lack of Motivation
• Academic Challenges
• Poor Social & Coping Skills
• Strong Desire To Live Outside of Family and Family Values

Course activities include backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, introduction to navigational skills, team-building initiatives, etc. Coupled with individual and group therapy, these activities are designed to facilitate growth in the areas of:

• Self-confidence
• Self-discipline
• Personal responsibility
• Trust
• Respect
• Problem solving skills
• Personal strengths and values

FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
We at BOE believe the family is an integral part in the healing and recovery process, therefore, our Clinical Director works closely with the family while participants are on course.  Family Weekend, occurring the last weekend of the course when family is re-united with participant, focuses on family/participant interaction and includes family initiatives and multi-family therapy groups.  As a conclusion to the program, the Clinical Director, Field Therapist, and Field Instructor meet with each family individually and share recommendations and suggestions for follow-up treatment. 

ADMISSIONS PROCESS & PROGRAM FEES
The admissions process for the 22-day expedition requires the completion of a comprehensive participant application, satisfactory physical examination, and a non-refundable deposit of twenty percent ($1,780) of the program fee.  The total cost of the 22-day expedition is $8,900.00. If you have any questions regarding our program, please do not hesitate to call our Admissions Department at (804) 378-9006 or email admissions@blackwateroutdoor.com.  We look forward to serving you and your family.