The phased model of adventure therapy: trauma-focussed, low arousal, & positive behavioural support

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to describe the development of the Phased Model of Adventure Therapy. Adventure therapy is the use of adventure experiences to engage clients on cognitive, affective and behavioural levels. Use of adventure therapy has been found to improve psychological wellbeing, self- esteem and behaviour in young people. A UK-based adventure therapy provider, the Creative Outdoors Group, provides care to young people who are currently looked after by the Local Authority and display complex emotional and/or behavioural needs. The Phased Model of Adventure Therapy has been developed in association with the Creative Outdoors Group to promote improvements in psychological and behavioural functioning. The model consists of several theoretical models applied alongside a regime of adventure or outdoor activities. This paper describes the theoretical underpinnings of the Model and how this was applied to an adventure therapy regime.