ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wilderness Therapy Programs Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Youth Villages, Inc

Recreation Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$50K - $51K/yr

These programs are offered across three types of facilities--secure facilities, open campuses, and ... Experience with experiential education, community recreation, wilderness therapy, rock climbing ...

Youthvillages

Recreation Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$50K - $51K/yr

These programs are offered across three types of facilities-secure facilities, open campuses, and ... Experience with experiential education, community recreation, wilderness therapy, rock climbing ...

Youth Villages

Recreation Assistant

Memphis, TN · On-site

$50K - $51K/yr

These programs are offered across three types of facilities-secure facilities, open campuses, and ... Experience with experiential education, community recreation, wilderness therapy, rock climbing ...

DISMAL RIVER CLUB

Massage Therapist

Mullen, NE · On-site

We blend rugged wilderness and refined comfort -- offering two world-class golf courses designed by ... Graduate of an accredited massage therapy program (recent graduates encouraged to apply) * Valid ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsHealthcare JobsWilderness Therapy Programs Jobs

Wilderness Therapy Programs information

What are wilderness therapy programs?

Wilderness therapy programs are structured treatment programs that use outdoor expeditions and nature-based activities as therapeutic interventions for adolescents and young adults facing emotional, behavioral, or substance abuse challenges. These programs combine traditional therapy methods with experiential learning in a natural setting to promote personal growth, resilience, and healthy coping strategies. Trained therapists and outdoor guides lead participants through activities such as hiking, camping, and group counseling, helping them develop self-awareness and interpersonal skills. Wilderness therapy is often used as an alternative or complement to traditional mental health treatment. Outcomes can include improved self-esteem, better communication skills, and stronger emotional regulation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in wilderness therapy programs?

To thrive in Wilderness Therapy Programs, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or outdoor education, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and experience in outdoor leadership. Familiarity with GPS navigation, risk management systems, and therapeutic assessment tools is commonly required. Strong communication, empathy, resilience, and teamwork are vital soft skills for supporting participants through challenging experiences. These competencies are essential to ensure client safety, foster personal growth, and effectively facilitate therapeutic interventions in remote wilderness environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by staff working in wilderness therapy programs, and how are they supported in overcoming them?

Staff in Wilderness Therapy Programs often face challenges such as managing group dynamics in remote outdoor settings, maintaining safety during unpredictable weather, and supporting participants through emotional and behavioral crises. These roles require strong teamwork, flexibility, and resilience. Employers typically provide comprehensive training in risk management, crisis intervention, and wilderness first aid, as well as regular debriefings and access to mental health support to help staff cope with the emotional demands of the job. Collaboration with clinical therapists and outdoor guides is common, ensuring a supportive environment for both staff and participants.

What is the difference between Wilderness Therapy Programs vs Wilderness Therapists?

AspectWilderness Therapy ProgramsWilderness Therapists
CredentialsProgram directors often have backgrounds in psychology, counseling, or outdoor education; certifications varyLicensed mental health professionals with degrees in psychology, counseling, or social work; required licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, wilderness expeditions, group activitiesClinical settings, outdoor therapy sessions, individual or group therapy in wilderness environments
Employer & Industry UsageRehab centers, youth treatment programs, outdoor education organizationsTherapists employed by treatment centers, clinics, or private practices specializing in wilderness therapy

Wilderness Therapy Programs oversee the entire therapeutic experience, including logistics and program structure, while Wilderness Therapists are licensed professionals providing direct mental health treatment within these programs. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

How to become a wilderness therapy programs?

To work in wilderness therapy programs, individuals typically need a background in outdoor education, psychology, or social work, along with experience in outdoor or adventure activities. Certification in wilderness first aid or CPR is often required, and relevant experience working with youth or in therapeutic settings can improve job prospects.

How to get a job in wilderness therapy programs?

To work in wilderness therapy programs, candidates typically need relevant experience in outdoor education, counseling, or therapy, along with certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Many positions require a background in mental health, youth work, or outdoor leadership, and applicants should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and comfort in outdoor environments.

What is the typical career path in wilderness therapy programs?

A typical career path in wilderness therapy programs starts with entry-level roles such as wilderness therapy guide or field staff, focusing on outdoor skills and client supervision. Advancement often involves gaining experience, obtaining certifications like Wilderness First Responder, and moving into supervisory or clinical roles such as program coordinator or therapist. Continuing education in counseling or psychology can also facilitate career growth within the field.
More about Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs

What states have the most Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs are:

Wilderness Therapy Programs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wilderness Therapy Programs job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Residential Shift Supervisor

Embark Behavioral Health

Bend, OR • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Embark Behavioral Health rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Hourly Pay: $26.00-$28.00, DOE
Full Time, onsite
Location: 63140 Dickey Rd, Bend, OR 97701
We are seeking dedicated and experienced Residential Shift Supervisors to join our exceptional team. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about mental health who bring supervisory experience or a background in mental health, psychology, social services, inpatient healthcare, direct support, or Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) roles.
Shift Supervisors play a crucial role in maintaining consistency and safety by upholding daily schedules, student expectations, and program policies. Leading a team of 3-4 Residential Mentors, Supervisors ensure students are cared for and supported in their journey toward improved mental health and personal growth. Our staff help youth and their families work on communication, emotional regulation, life skills, and social skills through extracurricular activities, work with animals, and academic progress.
Responsibilities
  • Act as the lead staff on shift, ensuring smooth operations and completion of all necessary tasks.
  • Supervise Residential Mentors by holding weekly meetings, providing feedback, and supporting their professional development.
  • Support training and onboarding of new mentors.
  • Monitor client whereabouts, safety, and emotional well-being through regular checks and documentation.
  • Maintain the program schedule and structure by holding consistent boundaries.
  • Communicate and document shift information effectively to support the team.
  • Respond to crises using de-escalation skills and training.
  • Provide behavioral and academic support during school hours.
  • Plan and engage in extracurricular activities with students, such as arts, crafts, sports, and outdoor adventures.
  • Occasionally support with meal prep or heating and serving meals in the kitchen.
  • Assist with residential maintenance or administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age or older
  • Must obtain a High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalency
  • Current First Aid and CPR certifications (or willingness to obtain)
  • Valid State of Oregon driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening
  • Strong communication skills and ability to build healthy relationships
  • Proficiency in de-escalation techniques and behavioral intervention
  • Reliability, organization, and timeliness

Preferred:
  • 2+ years of experience in a residential setting, wilderness therapy, or direct care role with youth
  • 1+ year of supervisory experience

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance - Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees and 4 weeks for non-exempt.
  • Life & Disability Coverage - Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
  • 401(k) with Company Match - Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
  • PTO & Holidays - Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for life's challenges.

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.
Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.
#LI-RB1 #LI-Onsite#EBOTHR

What Embark Behavioral Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply