Teen Wilderness Therapy: Years of Abuse Allegations

Over the last two decades, teen wilderness therapy programs have grown dramatically with little oversight or regulation. Many teens who have gone through these programs are now speaking up as adults about the harm that happened to them during these programs, including sexual abuse. Today we’re going to discuss what these programs are, their history, the allegations of abuse and the legal rights and options for survivors. Teen Wilderness Therapy, also known as Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare is a treatment approach that uses outdoor experiences and challenges to address behavioral and emotional issues in children and teens. Emerging in the 1970s and eighties, they were seen as an alternative to juvenile detention with the belief that nature and outdoor activities could facilitate personal growth and healing. Despite their therapeutic intentions, numerous teen wilderness therapy programs to face allegations of abuse, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Some of the most concerning reports include instances of sexual assault by staff members, inadequate supervision leading to accidents or injuries, and the use of harsh disciplinary measures that result in physical and emotional trauma.

Tragically, there have also been reports of deaths in some programs, often due to inadequate medical care or unsafe conditions. Survivors of abuse in teen wilderness therapy programs may have experienced a range of harms, including sexual assault or harassment by staff or peers. Physical abuse, such as being restrained or subject to extreme physical challenges without proper safety measures. Emotional abuse, including humiliation, isolation, or being denied contact with family and neglect, such as lack of food or adequate water, shelter, or medical care. If you or someone you know is a survivor of abuse in a teen wilderness therapy program, it’s important to know that you have legal rights and options. Very first thing you should do is contact a lawyer who specializes in these types of cases. They can help you understand your rights and options, including how the statute of limitations may impact that, or how long you have to file a civil lawsuit and seek damages against an institution like Trails, Carolina Blue Fire, wilderness, or other wilderness therapy programs. There are also support groups and mental health resources available to you, and while teen Wilderness Therapy programs may offer benefits for some, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address the serious issues of abuse that have occurred within these settings. If you’re a survivor, remember that you have rights and that there are steps you can take to seek justice and healing. If you have concerns or questions about your experience within a Teen Wilderness Therapy program, please reach out to Helping Survivors.