215: Addressing Anxiety Through Climbing: Noah Kleiner's Journey at Equinox Guiding Services

In this enlightening conversation, Will talks with Tripp Johnson who shares his unique journey into behavioral healthcare and his evolution into a social entrepreneur. His accidental entry into the field, catalyzed by personal challenges with alcohol and a transformative exploration of mindfulness and yoga, marks the start of his commitment to improving mental health care. Tripp discusses his foundational experiences, including his time at West Point, his military service, and his eventual pivot towards integrating his passion for holistic wellness into his professional life. This journey led him to co-found Green Hill Recovery, focusing on helping young adults navigate life's challenges through integrated treatment programs that blend academic, career development, and mindfulness practices.

Throughout the conversation, Tripp delves into the challenges and successes of shifting from private pay to an insurance-driven model, emphasizing the importance of accessibility, affordability, and quality of treatment. He critiques the private pay segment of the industry for often prioritizing marketing and referral relationships over clinical sophistication and advocates for systemic changes to make high-quality care accessible to a broader demographic. Tripp's approach, inspired by his personal growth journey and professional experiences, underscores the need for the healthcare industry to innovate and adapt to serve clients better and ensure sustainability.

The interview concludes with Tripp's vision for the future, where he hopes to see an industry that continues to innovate and provide care that is both high quality and accessible to all. He discusses his role in leading an innovation-focused offshoot to develop back-office systems and technology to streamline processes and enhance patient care. Tripp's story is a compelling call to action for the behavioral healthcare industry to evolve and embrace models that prioritize patient well-being, accessibility, and the integration of holistic practices into treatment methodologies.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this episode Will sits down with Nate Bennick, the National Field Director for Adventure Recovery, to dive into the transformative power of combining mental health treatment with outdoor adventures. Nate shares his personal journey from battling addiction to finding solace and strength in the wilderness, leading him to his role in Adventure Recovery. Nate's story exemplifies the impact of nature-based immersions and adventure in fostering recovery and self-discovery, resonating with anyone looking for a path to healing outside the conventional therapy rooms.

Nate shares his story from working in the confines of traditional residential treatment programs to the expansive possibilities offered by wilderness therapy. The episode delves into how Adventure Recovery leverages adventure and the natural world as vehicles for change, providing individuals in recovery with opportunities to challenge themselves, enhance resilience, and cultivate a sense of community. It further highlights the operational aspects of Adventure Recovery, including the preparation and certification of guides, the array of activities available, and the tailored support provided to clients on their recovery journeys.

This episode not only illuminates the innovative approach of Adventure Recovery but also stands as a tribute to the therapeutic potential of the outdoors. Nate's dedication to aiding others in finding their recovery path through adventure is both moving and motivational, making this episode essential listening for anyone interested in the confluence of mental health treatment and outdoor exploration.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

 In this episode Will talks with Dan Schmader, the Program Director at Foundation House, to delve into the therapeutic integration of outdoor activities in the realm of mental health and addiction recovery. Schmader unveils the unique approach of Foundation House, located in Portland, Maine, emphasizing its dedication to males aged 17 to 35. He outlines the transition journey of residents from structured care environments to a blend of Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), all while residing in a sober living house. Schmader highlights the program's success in leveraging the natural beauty and resources of Portland and Bethel, Maine, to foster recovery through a diverse array of outdoor activities, including wilderness outings, sports, and life skills workshops.

The conversation further explores the profound impact of outdoor adventures on the residents' recovery process. Schmader shares personal anecdotes and the transformative experiences of participating in both local and international expeditions, such as service work in the US Virgin Islands and trekking in Patagonia. These adventures, rooted in challenges, accountability, and teamwork, significantly contribute to the mental, spiritual, and physical facets of recovery. Schmader’s own journey from a resident to a leading figure at Foundation House underscores the profound personal and communal growth facilitated by the program.

Conclusively, this episode not only sheds light on Foundation House's innovative treatment model but also underscores the invaluable role of outdoor activities in healing and recovery. The discussion vividly illustrates how embracing adventure, confronting challenges, and fostering connections can pave the way for a renewed sense of purpose and well-being among individuals battling addiction.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this enlightening episode Will sits down with Dr. Madolyn Liebing, a historical figure in the wilderness therapy field and the clinical director at Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Juniper Recovery Center. Dr. Liebing provides an in-depth look at their blended program for adults, which combines intensive clinical therapy with experiential outdoor adventures, designed to support smoother transitions for clients into their communities. She discusses the therapeutic modalities employed, such as EMDR and emotion-focused therapy, and underscores the importance of addressing trauma, substance abuse, and family dynamics within a nurturing, natural environment.

Dr. Liebing candidly addresses the controversies surrounding wilderness therapy for adolescents, including the criticism following the Netflix documentary "Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare." She shares her concerns about the field including transporting teens as well as generalizations that have tarnished the reputation of wilderness therapy, emphasizing the rigorous safety protocols and therapeutic benefits of well-run programs. Through personal anecdotes and client stories, Dr. Liebing illustrates the profound transformations that can occur when individuals are given the opportunity to heal in the wilderness, away from the pressures and distractions of their usual environments.

The episode takes a deeper dive into the challenges faced by the wilderness therapy field, with Dr. Liebing reflecting on the closures of adolescent wilderness programs and the impact of social media and public perception. Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic about the future of wilderness therapy, advocating for the expansion of outdoor-based therapeutic models that can reach more individuals in need. Dr. Liebing's insights not only highlight the innovative work being done at Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Juniper Recovery Center but also champion the crucial role of nature in recovery and personal growth, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the skepticism surrounding the field.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this episode Will sits down with Roy DuPrez, CEO and Founder of Back2Basics, an outdoor-based recovery program in Arizona.  Roy shares his personal journey of recovery, beginning with his early struggles with alcohol and substance abuse in Venice Beach, California. He describes the allure of alcohol in his youth, influenced by his social environment and the perception of success and attractiveness associated with drinking. Roy's journey through addiction led to various consequences, including legal troubles and professional setbacks.

Moving to Flagstaff, Arizona, for a fresh start, Roy found a shift in his life. Despite continuing his drinking habits initially, he eventually reached a turning point in 2001, leading him to embrace recovery and sobriety. This transformation was bolstered by outdoor experiences, such as visiting the Grand Canyon, which provided a profound sense of perspective and renewal.

Roy shares the story of starting Back2Basics in 2010, combining his experiences with a unique recovery model that integrates outdoor expeditions with clinical therapy. The program, initially private pay but later accepting insurance, targets young men aged 18 to 35, offering a 90-day minimum stay with most staying longer. This approach allows for the planting of seeds of recovery, personal growth, and the development of life skills in a supportive environment.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this enlightening episode Will welcomes Mike Hench from At the Crossroads, a program dedicated to helping young adults navigate the challenges of transitioning to adulthood. Mike shares the inspiring journey of At the Crossroads, which began in 2005 as a brainchild of Brian and Shannon Virgin, aimed at helping young adults in less restrictive environments than traditional residential programs. The program, located in St. George, Utah, offers a unique blend of real-life experiences, community integration, and outdoor experiences, catering to young adults struggling with issues like social anxiety, depression, and substance use.

Mike delves into the evolution of client demographics at the At the Crossroads program, noting a shift towards individuals with complex psychological issues rather than substance abuse. He emphasizes the therapeutic power of nature, sharing personal experiences of transformative moments with clients during outdoor activities like hiking. These interactions highlight the significant role of nature in promoting mental wellness and personal growth.

The episode also touches on the broader landscape of mental health and outdoor therapy, specifically the wilderness therapy field. Mike discusses the challenges and changes in the field, including the impact of the pandemic and shifts in treatment models. He underlines the importance of innovative approaches and the increasing need for services that address unique modern challenges faced by young adults.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this special episode Will discusses the announcement of the upcoming closure of Open Sky Wilderness Therapy, marking a significant moment in the private pay, adolescent-focused wilderness therapy sector. This closure is part of a larger trend, as Open Sky is the fifth program of its kind to shut down within a year. The episode offers an in-depth analysis of these closures, examining common challenges such as shifting societal perceptions, increased competition from other types of mental health treatment, and economic difficulties.

Listeners are taken through a journey beginning with a reading of Open Sky's closure announcement, offering a personal and direct insight into the issues faced by the program. The episode revisits previous interviews with Open Sky employees, highlighting their dedication to providing exceptional outdoor mental health care for adolescents. In a reflective essay, the Will draws parallels between the current state of wilderness therapy and a 'winter' phase – a time for introspection and preparation for future growth.

Significantly, the episode also revisits a January 2021 interview with Kenneth Rosen, author of “Troubled: The Failed Promise of America’s Behavioral Treatment Programs”, who had predicted these closures in a conversation with Will. This discussion offers a unique perspective on the challenges and criticisms facing the adolescent wilderness therapy sector, providing a comprehensive understanding of its evolution and the potential paths forward. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the complex dynamics of wilderness therapy and the factors shaping its future.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this episode, Will talks with Tommy Rosen, founder of Recovery 2.0, for a profound exploration of overcoming addiction through holistic healing. The episode opens with a poignant tribute to the late Adam Tsapis, a key figure in both their lives, setting the tone for a conversation deeply rooted in personal transformation and the power of human connection. Tommy shares his tumultuous journey through addiction, emphasizing the life-changing moment of hitting rock bottom and the subsequent spiritual awakening that led him to over 32 years of sobriety. His narrative is not just his own but echoes the struggles and hopes of many who tread the challenging path of recovery.

As the conversation unfolds, Tommy expresses concern about pharmacological interventions in addiction treatment, advocating for a more encompassing and humane approach. He passionately discusses Recovery 2.0, a program he developed that emphasizes a holistic recovery path involving yoga, meditation, dietary mindfulness, time in the outdoors, and community support. He underscores the importance of adapting twelve-step programs to the current era, making them more accessible and relevant to individuals seeking help today. His perspective is not just about overcoming addiction but also about embracing a journey toward overall wellness and sustained mental health.

In the third part of the discussion, Tommy emphasizes the transformational power of embracing life's subtleties and finding joy in everyday experiences as a fundamental part of recovery. He stresses that recovery is not the end of the road but the beginning of a more conscious, connected way of living. His message is one of hope, stressing that recovery is possible for anyone willing to embrace change and seek a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. The episode concludes with Tommy imparting a poignant message to the Tsapis family and all listeners, affirming the enduring power of love, connection, and resilience in the face of adversity. His story and insights offer a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of the human spirit in overcoming the challenges of addiction and mental health.

We want to thank Adventure Recovery for underwriting Season 18 which focuses on addiction and recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes of this podcast on Stories from the Field.com.

In this first episode of 2024 Will talks with Melanie Gulde, the visionary program director of Divided Sky Recovery in Vermont. In this enlightening episode, listeners will delve into the heart of Divided Sky, a unique residential recovery program with an outdoor component co-founded by Melanie Gulde and Trey Anastasio of the renowned band Phish. Discover the inspiring history behind Divided Sky, its name derived from a Phish song, and explore its distinctive, holistic approach to addiction recovery.

Learn about the challenges Melanie and Trey faced while creating a facility dedicated to transforming lives through emotional sobriety, mindfulness, and a profound connection with nature. Melanie shares her personal journey, and the pivotal role nature plays in mental health and well-being. With a focus on outdoor activities like hiking and trail building, Divided Sky emphasizes the healing power of the outdoors, offering a sanctuary for those seeking recovery.

Understand the commitment of Divided Sky to make recovery accessible, offering scholarships and a testament to Melanie and Trey’s passion for outdoor mental health treatment. This episode is not just a story of a recovery program but a tale of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of nature in mental health. Tune into this compelling episode to get a deep insight into the innovative approach of Divided Sky Recovery.

To learn more about a Adventure Recovery the sponsor of Season 18 focused on addiction and recovery, at Adventure Recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes at Stories from the Field.com

Welcome to the premiere episode of Season 18 of Stories from the Field! This season, our spotlight is on addiction and recovery, and we're thrilled to have Adventure Recovery as our underwriter—a recognized leader in the realms of recovery and outdoor leadership.

In this episode, we sit down with Tim Walsh, the visionary founder of Adventure Recovery, and Josh Flaherty, now the executive director and a key partner in the organization. Tim shares his profound journey of recovery and how reconnecting with nature played a pivotal role in his healing process. His transformation inspired the creation of Adventure Recovery, a unique fusion of outdoor leadership and recovery principles. Josh, who transitioned from being a client to becoming an integral part of Adventure Recovery, recounts his path and highlights how the organization empowers individuals in recovery to become outdoor guides, seamlessly integrating mental health and substance use disorder recovery with valuable outdoor skills.

We delve into the array of training programs offered by Adventure Recovery, such as rock climbing, whitewater skills, and sea kayaking. These programs not only teach outdoor skills but also foster resilience and coping abilities, with nature serving as a profound teacher. Throughout the episode, we explore the transformative impact of these outdoor experiences on individuals in recovery, sharing inspiring stories of clients who triumphed over significant challenges.

As we wrap up, Tim and Josh emphasize their commitment to outdoor activities and their role in maintaining their own recovery and well-being. We conclude by highlighting the profound transformative power of nature and adventure in the recovery process, which extends beyond clients to the guides themselves. Join us on this journey of hope, healing, and inspiration.

To learn more about Adventure Recovery the sponsor of this season of addiction and recovery, at Adventure Recovery. 

Listeners are invited to explore the rich archives of over 200 episodes at storiesfromthefield.com.