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Adventure Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Newport Academy

Adventure Therapist

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Adventure therapy staff desired at gender specific adolescent residential center treating co-occurring disorders in Orange County. Responsibilities include planning, organizing and implementing twice ...

LUK Inc.

Be Seen First

Coordinator of Adventure Based Services

Boylston, MA · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

WILLD is a community-based adventure therapy program funded by the Department of Public Health, provides intervention and treatment for Youth/Young Adults at risk for or currently involved with ...

Confluence Behavioral Health LLC

Clinical Therapist

VT · On-site

$59K - $79K/yr

The program combines wilderness adventure therapy with a residential experience, farm programming, and comprehensive health and wellness services to guide young adults facing mental health challenges ...

Red Oak Recovery Center

Therapist

Fletcher, NC · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Each campus offers a unique blend of clinical rehabilitation, 12 step addiction recovery, proven addiction therapy services, family counseling, and experiential and adventure therapy. We are seeking ...

Red Oak Recovery Center

Therapist

Ellenboro, NC · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Each campus offers a unique blend of clinical rehabilitation, 12 step addiction recovery, proven addiction therapy services, family counseling, and experiential and adventure therapy. We are seeking ...

Red Oak Recovery Center

Therapist

Leicester, NC · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Each campus offers a unique blend of clinical rehabilitation, 12 step addiction recovery, proven addiction therapy services, family counseling, and experiential and adventure therapy. We are seeking ...

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How much do adventure therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for adventure therapy in the United States is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is adventure therapy?

An Adventure Therapy job involves using outdoor and experiential activities to support individuals in improving their mental health and overall well-being. Practitioners, often therapists or counselors, guide clients through activities like hiking, rock climbing, or team-building exercises to promote personal growth, resilience, and self-confidence. These activities help clients process emotions, develop coping skills, and build stronger relationships. Adventure therapists work in various settings, including wilderness programs, residential treatment centers, and outpatient therapy practices. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges.

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

To thrive in Adventure Therapy, professionals generally need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, along with expertise in outdoor education or wilderness leadership. Certifications such as Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and sometimes clinical licenses (e.g., LPC, LCSW) are commonly required, as are competencies with risk management systems and activity-specific equipment. Strong soft skills include communication, empathy, adaptability, and teamwork, given the need to support clients in unpredictable outdoor settings. These abilities are vital for ensuring participant safety, fostering therapeutic rapport, and effectively facilitating personal growth through adventure-based activities.

What are some typical challenges faced by adventure therapy professionals?

Adventure Therapy professionals often work in dynamic outdoor environments where they must adapt to changing weather, participants’ varying physical abilities, and evolving group dynamics. Managing the safety and emotional well-being of participants while facilitating therapeutic outcomes can be demanding, especially during extended trips. It’s important to be comfortable making quick decisions, effectively managing crises, and balancing therapeutic goals with risk management. However, overcoming these challenges is part of what makes the role rewarding, as it allows for meaningful breakthroughs and strong, supportive relationships with clients.

How do you become an adventure therapist?

To become an adventure therapist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, followed by specialized training in adventure therapy techniques. Many pursue a master's degree and obtain certifications such as the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) credential, gaining experience through internships or supervised practice in outdoor or therapeutic settings.

How much do adventure therapists make?

Adventure therapists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the setting, such as clinics, schools, or outdoor programs, and may include additional benefits or opportunities for advancement.
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Infographic showing various Adventure Therapy job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 53% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,101 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Adventure Therapist

Newport Beach, CA

Newport Academy
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Newport Academyexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Newport Academy is a gender-specific, comprehensive treatment program for adolescents suffering from mental health, behavioral health and substance abuse issues. The program combines the key elements essential in effectively treating adolescent girls and boys with substance abuse and other mental health disorders. As compared with adults, adolescents have higher rates of dual diagnosis and developmental differences. Adolescent treatment needs can be challenging and often involves more comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approaches. At Newport Academy, we deliver a highly individualized, holistic approach to treatment where psychological, biological, spiritual, social and educational needs are continually assessed and revised throughout the treatment process.

Job Description

Adventure therapy staff desired at gender specific adolescent residential center treating co-occurring disorders in Orange County. Responsibilities include planning, organizing and implementing twice weekly group activities such as hiking, paddleboarding, rock climbing, ropes course and team building exercises. Adventure therapy staff is encouraged to be creative and build therapeutic activities that can address individual needs and build self esteem. Adventure therapy staff will work closely with clinical staff to best address needs of residents. Must be available for weekly staff meetings, trainings and other events. Must complete and pass trainings and background check with DCF and State Police. Experience or education in the field of Human Services, Psychology or Substance Abuse is highly encouraged. Awareness and understanding of 12 step recovery principles preferred. This job is an amazing opportunity to change lives. 

Qualifications

Licensed and/or Certified Clinical Credentials required 

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