In an era dominated by screens, reconnecting with nature is more important than ever. For those struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt—especially teenagers—nature-based therapy can be life-changing. We spoke with Kendra Meiklejohn, MS, LCSW, an adventure therapy expert at Chrysalis, to explore how the healing power of nature foster resilience, healing, and self-discovery.
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The Connection Between Nature, Adventure, and Mental Well-Being
Kendra’s love for nature began in Montana, where she spent her childhood exploring the outdoors. Before becoming a therapist, she worked in wilderness programs, witnessing firsthand how activities like backpacking and hiking foster personal growth. “Experiencing life in new ways is therapeutic, and nature amplifies that effect,” she explains.
Over the years, terms like “wilderness therapy,” “eco-therapy,” “green therapy,” and “adventure therapy” have emerged, but the core principle remains the same: human beings are deeply connected to nature, and different approaches work for different individuals.
Benefits of Nature on Mental Health
Spending time outdoors significantly reduces anxiety disorder, depression, stress levels, and other mental health disorders while improving cognitive function and creativity. Fresh air, natural light (light therapy), the sounds of nature, and greenery enhance mood, while physical activity releases endorphins—the “feel-good” hormones.
Through the healing power of nature, individuals foster mindfulness, providing a break from daily pressures. It encourages gratitude and a sense of belonging, helping individuals feel connected to something greater than themselves. The healing power of nature on human health cannot be underestimated.
Physical Health Benefits of Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy combines physical activity with nature for holistic healing. Activities like hiking and kayaking play an important factor is helping improve heart rate, blood pressure, immune system, endurance, and sleep quality. Research shows that outdoor or green exercise lowers stress hormones and enhances mood more than indoor workouts.
Beyond fitness, overcoming physical challenges builds confidence, leading to lasting motivation for a healthy lifestyle for teens and young adults.
Emotional and Spiritual Growth Through Nature
Nature has long been a source of positive emotions such as inspiration and comfort. Using the healing power of nature as a catalyst, individuals build resilience, confront fears, and gain self-awareness. Time outdoors provides clarity, fosters gratitude, and nurtures a deeper sense of purpose.
Through shared experiences and personal breakthroughs, nature creates lasting emotional and spiritual transformation—offering not just healing, but a renewed appreciation and greater quality of life satisfaction.
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Understanding Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes outdoor activities and natural environments to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It is based on the idea that stepping into nature and embracing challenges fosters personal growth, builds confidence, and strengthens self-awareness.
Unlike traditional clinical practice, which typically takes place in an office setting, adventure therapy immerses participants in dynamic, hands-on experiences. By pushing beyond their comfort zones, individuals gain insights into their strengths and limitations, leading to meaningful growth and healing.
Key Principles and Practices
At its core, harnessing the healing power of nature is rooted in experiential learning—gaining knowledge through direct experience and reflection. Activities such as hiking, camping, and high ropes courses help participants develop problem-solving skills, improve communication, and build resilience in an engaging and supportive environment.
Group therapy is often an integral component, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. Facing challenges together strengthens social skills, builds trust, and encourages participants to learn from one another’s experiences.
Many adventure programs also incorporate mindfulness and nature-based practices to deepen participants’ connection with the natural world. This holistic approach enhances emotional well-being by promoting a sense of peace, presence, and personal fulfillment.
How Adventure Therapy Differs from Traditional Approaches
While adventure therapy shares the same goal as traditional therapy—improving mental health problems—it stands out by using the outdoors as a therapeutic setting rather than relying solely on in-office discussions.
For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns. Adventure therapy complements this by providing real-world opportunities to confront limiting beliefs and develop healthier coping strategies through action and experience.
Additionally, embracing the healing power of nature highlights the connection between mind and body. By engaging in physical activity and immersing in nature, participants experience a well-rounded approach to healing—one that goes beyond traditional talk therapy to address multiple aspects of overall wellness.
The Influence of Social Media on Teen Mental Health
Public health professionals are increasingly concerned about the impact of social media on teenage anxiety and depression. Kendra observes that platforms like Snapchat and Instagram play a major role in shaping teens’ social identities, often fueling self-doubt and heightened anxiety.
“One of the biggest issues is the disconnect between a teen’s real inner self and the idealized version they present online. The wider this gap, the more anxiety they tend to experience,” she explains. The constant cycle of validation and rejection in digital spaces can lead to an external locus of control, where self-worth becomes dependent on likes and comments rather than genuine self-acceptance.
In contrast, nature provides a judgment-free space where teens can simply be themselves. “Nature doesn’t demand perfection or performance—it just is. This allows teens to reconnect with their authentic selves in a way social media often discourages.”
Signs of Unhealthy Technology Addiction
Parents who are concerned about their teen’s relationship with technology should watch for these warning signs:
- Sudden personality changes without a clear cause
- Increased isolation and excessive screen time
- Mood swings directly linked to social media interactions
Instead of immediately restricting access, Kendra encourages parents to foster open, ongoing conversations. Understanding their teen’s digital world and staying engaged with their experiences online is key to offering meaningful support.
Why Nature-Based Therapy Works
Research consistently demonstrates that time in nature enhances mental well-being. Various nature-based interventions—including adventure therapy, outdoor recreation, and forest therapy (or forest bathing)
—have been widely studied. While traditional methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have long-standing research support, a nature-based approach is gaining similar recognition for its effectiveness in reducing stress, anxiety, and emotional distress.
One key distinction between digital environments and nature is unpredictability. “You can’t control the weather or terrain, and that unpredictability stimulates the brain’s emotional processing centers,” Kendra explains. Engaging multiple senses—feeling the wind, hearing rustling leaves, experiencing temperature shifts—deepens learning and fosters resilience.
Transformation Through Outdoor Experiences
One of the most compelling aspects of the healing power of nature is the transformation it inspires. Kendra recalls a student with a history of trauma who initially struggled with trust. Through her time in the wilderness, she learned to navigate uncertainty, listen to her body’s needs, and develop confidence in her ability to face challenges. Even after leaving the program, she continued to seek solace in nature, using it as a space for reflection and growth.
Evidence-Based Outcomes
Adventure therapy has a strong research foundation supporting its positive beneficial effects on mental, emotional, and physical health. Studies show it reduces stress and anxiety while enhancing self-esteem and social skills. Quantitative research reveals lower cortisol levels, indicating reduced stress, while self-reported experiences highlight improved well-being. Qualitative studies, through interviews and observations, further underscore personal growth and transformation. Together, these findings reinforce adventure therapy’s effectiveness and inform program improvements.
Lasting Impact
The benefits of a outdoor approach extend well beyond the program itself. Participants often carry forward stress management techniques, coping skills, and emotional resilience that support long-term mental health promotion. Physical benefits, such as improved fitness and healthier lifestyle habits, also contribute to lasting positive effect.
Practical Ways to Encourage Kids to Connect with Nature
The most effective way for parents to inspire their children to spend more time outdoors is by leading by example. “If a parent is always indoors on a screen, kids will naturally follow that example,” says Kendra. Prioritizing outdoor activities—whether it’s hiking, gardening, or simply taking a daily walk—helps cultivate a family culture that values nature.
Integrating the healing power of nature into daily life can be simple and rewarding. Scheduling regular outdoor breaks—such as a short walk during lunch, a few deep breaths of fresh air, or a moment in the sun—helps build a habit of connecting with the outdoors. Creating a green space at home, whether by planting flowers, growing herbs, or tending a small vegetable garden, can also encourage engagement with nature. Even indoor plants provide benefits, improving air quality and enhancing well-being.
Mindfulness practices in natural settings, like meditative walks or yoga in the park, can deepen this connection. Planning weekend outings to nearby parks, forests, or trails provides opportunities for adventure and relaxation while reaping the restorative benefits of the outdoors. By intentionally incorporating these habits, families can embrace nature as a vital part of their well-being.
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Core Elements of Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy integrates hands-on learning, risk management, and group dynamics to foster personal growth. By combining challenges with support, participants develop life skills, resilience, and a deeper connection with themselves and nature.
Experiential Learning & Personal Growth
A nature-based approach emphasizes learning through direct experiences. Activities like rock climbing, rafting, and wilderness expeditions push participants beyond their comfort zones, promoting problem-solving, communication, and confidence. Guided reflection helps them apply these lessons to everyday challenges, enhancing self-awareness and adaptability.
Risk Management & Safety
While risk is inherent in adventure therapy, safety is a top priority. Certified guides assess environmental and participant factors, provide thorough safety briefings, and ensure proper gear use. Emotional safety is also emphasized, creating a supportive space for personal exploration and growth.
Group Dynamics & Social Skills
The group setting enhances social skills and emotional support. Team-based challenges encourage communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Facilitators foster a supportive atmosphere where participants take on roles, build confidence, and develop stronger interpersonal connections.
This structured approach helps individuals navigate obstacles, discover inner strengths, and build lasting skills for personal development.
Choosing the Right Adventure Therapy Program
When considering wilderness or adventure therapy for a struggling teen, selecting the right program is crucial to ensuring a safe and effective experience. Kendra emphasizes that parents should carefully evaluate the following key factors before making a decision:
Accreditation & Safety
A reputable wilderness therapy program should adhere to strict safety protocols and industry best practices. Proper licensure ensures that the program follows ethical guidelines, prioritizes participant safety, and provides quality therapeutic support. Additionally, parents should ask about emergency response plans, staff-to-student ratios, and the level of medical support available in case of an emergency.
Philosophy & Approach
Every program has a unique therapeutic approach, ranging from traditional clinical models to experiential, nature-based methodologies. Some emphasize cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and structured interventions, while others focus on mindfulness, leadership development, or primitive survival skills as a means of personal growth. Understanding a program’s philosophy and therapeutic framework will help parents determine whether it aligns with their child’s specific emotional, behavioral, or psychological needs.
Qualified Staff
The effectiveness of a program depends largely on the expertise and qualifications of its staff. Parents should look for programs that employ licensed therapists with experience in adolescent mental health, as well as trained field guides who can safely facilitate outdoor experiences. In addition to formal credentials, compassionate and experienced mentors play a critical role in guiding teens through challenges, fostering self-reflection, and building trust.
Family Involvement
Successful therapeutic interventions extend beyond the wilderness experience itself. Programs that incorporate family therapy sessions, parent coaching, or structured communication plans can significantly improve reintegration after the program ends. Family involvement ensures that parents understand their child’s progress, learn effective strategies to support them, and create a healthy home environment that reinforces the lessons learned through the healing power of nature.
Aftercare Planning
Transitioning back into everyday life is just as important as the time spent in the wilderness. Effective programs provide aftercare planning to help teens maintain their progress and avoid returning to unhealthy patterns. This may include follow-up treatment, mentorship programs, online support groups, or recommendations for continued treatment, such as outpatient counseling or residential care if needed. Parents should ask about what kind of ongoing support is available and how the program ensures long-term success.
Understanding the Healing Power of Nature Therapy
Nature or adventure therapy isn’t just about learning survival skills or disconnecting from technology—it’s about fostering behavioral changes that boost resilience, self-awareness, and emotional growth. In an increasingly digital world where teenagers face mental illness from mounting stress, anxiety, and social pressure, the physiological effects of nature therapy provide healing and self-discovery. The structured challenges of outdoor therapy help teens lower stress levels while developing confidence, problem-solving skills, and a greater sense of responsibility.
By carefully evaluating programs based on safety, philosophy, staff expertise, family involvement, and aftercare, parents can ensure their child embarks on a transformative journey—one that leads not only to personal breakthroughs with the healing power of nature but also to long-term emotional well-being at home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is adventure therapy and how does it work?
Adventure therapy is a type of therapy that uses the natural environment to help encourage mental health benefits. It encourages people to take part in outdoor activities, like hiking or climbing. This helps promote personal growth and well-being.
How is safety maintained during adventure therapy sessions?
Safety is very important in adventure therapy. This is done by careful risk management. It includes having skilled leaders, providing pre-activity talks, using the right equipment, and creating programs that focus on keeping both physical and emotional safety in mind.
Can adventure therapy be integrated with other forms of therapy?
Adventure therapy can work well with other types of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy. This could be part of a combined method for mental health care. Together, people can work on their goals using different ways to help them.
