+ Welcome to the Open Sky Webinar We will begin at 6 pm- see you soon!

+ The Continuum of Care: What Happens After Wilderness Presented by Dr. Paul Case, PsyD Open Sky’s Assistant Clinical Director Clinical Psychologist Clinical Therapist, Team D

+ Agenda Overview of the Continuum of Care and where Wilderness fits in The process of stepping down to an appropriate level of care The critical role of an educational consultant

+ Wilderness is the highest level of care Completely removed from distractions Constant supervision A simple and predictable routine An interdependent social group, much like a family Feedback, coaching, emotional awareness, and self-reflection are priorities throughout the experience, connecting therapeutic goals to daily experience The profound changes that often occur in wilderness are a result of this high level of care

+ Gains made in Wilderness Improved mental health symptomology Sense of accomplishment Increased self-esteem Sense of empowerment Better access to feelings Improved relationships Improved communication skills Improved drug and alcohol awareness Improved coping skills Greater awareness of behaviors Increased motivation for change (Bettman, 2007; Russell, 2001, 2003, 2005)

+ Maintaining wilderness gains The need for “aftercare” Motivation for change and growth is very connected to the environment Re-entry into the world of distractions and responsibilities with an appropriate level of supervision and support Generalizing gains and allowing enough time and practice that healthy choices become internalized

+ Risk Factors in returning home Peer group Entrenched problematic coping patterns Substance Abuse or other addictive behaviors Family environment that has not changed significantly Relapse is expected

+ ACTION Pre- Contemplation Preparation ACTION Maintenance Relapse Permanent Exit Enter

+ Wilderness as Assessment Necessary structure Supervision and Accountability Vulnerability to relapse Motivation for change Response to social support Historical triggers and coping patterns

+ The Critical Role of an Educational Consultant Expertise on specific programs All therapeutic programs are NOT the same! Advocate for family during the process Ability to match child’s needs with specific program options Therapists are not able to provide this kind of consultation

+ Thank you for participating! Dr. Paul Case Please keep this browser window open. When the presentation is complete, it will take you to a short survey for today’s webinar.