Brianna Bennett

 This climbing program is intended to increase happiness and attitudes of clients battling depression.  Clients will make a goal for the entire 6 week program and a goal for each session By making long term and short term goals with clients they will be able to keep track of their progress which will boost self-confidence.

Make sure that goals are measurable and that they are personalized to each client. Include the client in the goal making process.  Ex. Client will communicate positive or negative feelings to a staff member within the 6 week program  Staff member will document the clients mood each week to compare how they acted at the beginning and end of each session

Week One  Clients won’t have specific climbing goals but will be given the instructions for tying the figure 8 knot and climbing commands  Ice breaker games for all the clients to get to know each other.  Be sure to debrief after climbing session and what was learned and what they liked and disliked.  Do a closing circle each week to discuss where clients will compliment each other on something that they accomplished that session. Week Two  Clients will express something that they want to try to accomplish that night.  Clients will learn the basic climbing techniques and grades as well as safety measurements I the bouldering area.  Clients will close with a team building game as well as a closing circle  Be sure to give lots of praise when clients accomplish something challenging  Don’t point out how to get up the wall try to encourage problem solving.

WEEK THREE WEEK FOUR  Clients will be asked how they are liking the program and will be asked what they would like to be able to accomplish by the end of the program  Clients who are capable of belaying will learn to belay and be given the responsibility to care for another client  Debrief client and ask them how they felt helping a friend.  Closing circle and team building game  Theme week dress up like super heroes, 80’s, or something that pertains to the group. *optional  Offer incentive for clients with less motivation to try to get to the top or go higher than the week before  Free time, introduce gym deck and how to improve climbing skills with gym equipment, warm ups etc.  Debrief and show clients their progress  Closing circle and games

WEEK 5WEEK 6  Guest/Motivational Speaker  Free Climb, Clients choose between belaying, climbing top rope, or bouldering. Review goals and accomplishments with clients  Challenge clients to make it to the top of the wall always encouraging whatever is accomplished.  Closing circle, Have each client share there favorite thing about climbing so far  Pizza Party!  T-Shirts, and personalized awards  Lots of praise for accomplishments  Closing Circle, ask clients to share something they learned about themselves.  Tell clients and parents about future climbing or other programs offered.