Willie Ross Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy is the creation of challenge in a safe environment through experiential activities for groups to solve as a single unit designed for psychological treatment and education (Parker, 1992; Ziven, 1988). Adventure therapy approaches psychological treatment through experience and action within cooperative games, Trust activities, Problem Solving Initiatives, High adventure, outdoor pursuits, and wilderness expeditions focusing on groups, families, and individuals. Positive behavior changes, which are synonymous with psychological healing, occur through isomorphic connections.
Adventure therapy encompasses varying techniques and environments to elicit change. These include cooperative games, problem solving initiatives, trust building activities,high adventure (rock climbing/rappelling, ropes courses, peak ascents); and wilderness expeditions (backpacking, canoing, dog sledding, sailing, etc.) (Gass, 1993; Itin, 1995). Wilderness therapy, adventure based therapy, and long term residential camping are the most common forms of adventure therapy (Gass, 1993).
The use of adventure in therapy has a long history that has influenced the most recent forms of adventure practices in the therapeutic process. Influences from a variety of learning and psychological theories have contributed to the complex theoretical combination within adventure therapy (AT). Existing research in adventure therapy reports positive outcomes in effectively improving self esteem.
Sailing Program
The Foundation has a 26-foot sloop sailboat. The vessel is equipped with stainless steel stanchions along all sides with nettings between the stanchions, to prevent anyone from accidentally or purposely slipping overboard. The boat has a cabin, which allows the clients to move out of the sun if they desire. The cabin is equipped with a sink, refrigerator, dining table (which will comfortably sit four people) and a commode. Clients will be required to wear a class three life jacket with a strobe light attached. The strobe light automatically activates when it becomes wet. This allows everyone to immediately see the client in the water. The class three life jacket is designed to force the person to immediately become upright when in the water. Additionally, all staff members will be likewise equipped with a life jacket. The vessel also contains several throwable life rings/buoys and meets all Coast Guard safety requirements. Radio communication with emergency services will be available via VHF radio. First Aid kit and Global Positioning System will be on the vessel at all times. Staff ratio for this activity is 1:1, with no more than four clients at a time. The clients will go sailing at one of five locations; Lake Castaic, Lake Piru, Lake Pyramid,Lake Casitas, or Channel Island harbor. The vessel will be under the control of an experienced sailor who is not responsible for a client. The design of the boat allows for single-handed control and can be maneuvered by one person. Training and drills to deal with man overboard scenarios will be conducted by this agency. Client training will include safety aboard boats and proper conduct in a water environment. Additional goals are to coach clients in the operation of the vessel in protected surroundings. Clients will be taught the proper techniques to maintain the vessel in a seaworthy manner.
Rock Climbing Program
The Foundation has an 18' by 30' rock climbing wall. This is a great activity for working on gross motor skills and a fun way to excercise. The Foundation has qualified staff to assist and encourage the clients in climbing the wall.