Phoenix Outdoor Program
“In wilderness I sense the miracle of life, and behind it our scientific accomplishments fade to trivia.” -Charles Lindbergh
Phoenix Outdoor is a wilderness therapy program located near beautiful Asheville, North Carolina. We provide clinical assessments, wilderness therapy, and traditional therapeutic interventions for troubled teens ages 13-17 who are struggling with substance use and/or abuse, as well co-occurring behavioral and mental health issues. In an outdoor setting, far removed from daily distractions, we help you create a plan and process for long-term success and get your teenager to buy into that process, making needed behavioral changes.
These changes come about, in part, because of our unique expedition model. For 10 days, teens hike, camp, and participate in meaningful and intentional activities in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains under the expert guidance of trained field instructors. Then, each small peer group spends four days at base camp participating in therapeutic activities and meetings and practicing their new skills. At base, the teens also have the opportunity to shower and wash clothes.
Our wilderness therapy program for teens not only changes the lives of our students, but also their families. The highly trained professionals at Phoenix Outdoor work extensively with parents and loved ones prior to enrollment and even after graduation. Learn more about our family program.
To determine if your child is an appropriate fit for Phoenix Outdoor, contact admissions to have a confidential conversation about our wilderness therapy program. Students can be admitted every day of the week and within 24 hours if needed.
What is wilderness therapy and why is it effective with adolescents?