ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines key mechanisms and ethical considerations at work within adventure therapy and provides a snapshot of theories and research that highlight therapeutic benefits. The contemporary field of adventure therapy has been described as many tribal groups, reflecting different schools of thought and practice. In Australia, adventure therapy practice includes general therapeutic outcomes as well as the specific intent of therapy, so practitioners tend to work in cross-disciplinary teams and may hold diverse qualifications in social work, psychology, youth work, and teaching. While adventure therapy practitioners will likely understand the benefits of contact with nature, they are also expected to understand that novel environments can bring out different responses in participants, including possible triggering for those who have experienced previous trauma. The intention of the Regenerate service model is to address the traumatic impacts of family violence by supporting the recovery of women and their children through adventure therapy.
