Adventure/Nature-Based Therapy Jobs

Work in some of the most beautiful outdoor spots in America. Make a difference in the lives of others. Develop your own talents and skills. Hiking, camping, backpacking, beautiful scenery and dynamic interpersonal relationships all come with the job.

In this job channel, you'll explore opportunities as outdoor field instructors, wilderness therapy guides, field mentors, adventure therapy support staff, and residential outdoor youth counselors. You'll become a teacher. You'll become a healthy role model. You'll teach outdoor and survival skills. You'll play an essential role in mentoring and guiding youth and teens looking for healthier and higher trails through physically and demanding challenges.

Do what you love while providing insight, direction and hope to those who need it! Also check out helping job openings in our Camp Jobs and Meaningful Work channel.

Based on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, Passages Alaska is an adventure-based therapeutic program for adolescents and young adults (ages 14-22 in gender specific groups). Wilderness living and nomadic saltwater canoe expeditions are the foundational activities that inspire awe and provide opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth for each participant.

Guides have the primary responsibility to facilitate a physically safe, and appropriately challenging experience for participants, teach outdoor skill while living and traveling in the coastal waters via primitive means, and may lead group meditation, teach yoga, prepare a meal, de-escalate an emotional student and manage a black bear encounter—all in the same day! The guide position requires the confidence to manage a challenging situation with the humility to accept that there might be another way. Guides follow a two-week on work shift, followed by 1-2 weeks off to relax, explore, and travel. Pay begins at $250/day, plus meals, off-shift housing, ongoing clinical and professional training, and a supportive and validating organization that values and works to incorporate the individual skills and talents of its members. At minimum, applicants must be a least 21 years of age and physically/emotionally capable of spending extended time outdoors, away from cell service, and WiFi connectivity. Fishing, canoe and saltwater experience is a plus. Ideal applicants will have Lead Guide experience and a desire to ply their trade in America's last frontier! If you have a drive for adventure, the ability to manage the unexpected, and the desire to be a healthy influence in the lives of others, fill out the online application; then shoot an email to Sean to connect!

• Working as a Field Guide for Passages Alaska is an opportunity to experience a part of the Last Frontier from the seat of a canoe. This beautiful and unique location puts the wonders of Southeast Alaska literally at your doorstep. You will encounter humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, black bears, bald eagles, salmon and halibut — and you will come away with a changed perspective about the world and likely about yourself.

Gather, Build and Ignite the Spark in Troubled Teens and Young Adults!

Located in the high plains desert in southwest Idaho, BlueFire Wilderness Therapy is a comprehensive intervention for teens and young adults who are struggling in their lives. An unprecedented treatment approach incorporates an ideal blend of wilderness expeditions, high adventure and equine activities, individual and group therapy, academic work, service projects and family connections — all designed to deliver treatment opportunities and life skills attainment.

Full-time, year-round Field Instructors will lead groups in multi-day hiking expeditions and outings that combine an academic curriculum, primitive living and outdoor skills, volunteer work, and adventure activities (mountain biking, rock climbing, rafting, horseback riding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, and more!). Compensation includes a competitive wage of $160-$243/day, healthcare/vision/dental benefits, regular work-related trainings and professional development opportunities, BlueFire swag, and pro deals. A 2-week on, 2-week off schedule allows for travel, adventure and fun on your time off. A one-year commitment is preferred; seasonal positions are also available. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age with a high school diploma or GED. While not required, previous experience in backcountry living/travel, winter camping, outdoor adventure activities, and work with youth is preferred. After completing an application, potential Instructor applicants will be invited to participate in a pre-hire seminar. Learn more at BlueFireWilderness.com.

• In order to facilitate understanding and growth, BlueFire Wilderness Therapy uses the metaphor of a fire building model: Gather, Build and Ignite. This metaphor applies across all aspects of BlueFire programs.
• Why BlueFire? Learn more about the amazing opportunities and adventures staff have experienced while working at BlueFire.

Are you ready for a career that's both adventurous and deeply fulfilling?

Imagine waking up to the breathtaking beauty of nature every day, surrounded by the inimitable vistas of the southwest desert. Join the RedCliff Ascent team, transform lives in the wilderness, and make a difference! With a mission to help families heal, RedCliff Ascent uses the backdrop of nature as a catalyst for the effective treatment of teens struggling with mental health and behavioral issues.

Why Choose RedCliff Ascent?
• Work with Purpose: Help struggling youth overcome challenges, build resilience, and find their path to success.
• Adventure Awaits: Say goodbye to the office grind and hello to the wilderness! Explore stunning landscapes while making a meaningful impact.
• Professional Growth: Gain valuable experience in counseling, outdoor leadership, and therapeutic interventions. RedCliff offers training and development opportunities to help you thrive in your career!
• Team Spirit: Join a supportive community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for nature and transformational therapy.
• Pay and Benefits: Make up to $45,000 during your first year. Health, dental, vision, life, and supplemental insurances is offered, plus company contribution to HSA and a free Employee Assistance Program.

Apply now as a Field Guide and embark on a rewarding journey where every day is an adventure, and every moment is an opportunity to inspire positive change.

• Few roles are more fulfilling in life than the role of mentor, and few jobs offer the wide range of opportunities that RedCliff offers to its field staff. Hiking, camping, backpacking, beautiful scenery and dynamic interpersonal relationships all come with the job.

Do you have a love for the outdoors and wish to make a positive impact on youth?

As one of the industry's most sophisticated nature-based therapy programs, Second Nature provides insight, direction and hope to teens and their families. Blending the healing power of nature, mindfulness, nutrition, and wellness with licensed therapists and experienced staff, adolescents from the ages of 13-17 embark on a journey of health, choices, and secure relationships.

Working with a licensed therapist, Field Instructors teach healthy emotional and behavioral habits while hiking and camping with students in the backcountry of northeastern Utah. Instructors develop clinical qualities unrivaled in nature-based therapeutic care. Shelter building, friction fires, backpacking, mindfulness, simple daily chores, teamwork, relationship skills, problem solving, and life-changing lesson are all taught in the moment. Field Instructors make an initial commitment through seasonal contracts (minimum 3 months) and/or a year-round contract. The work week runs from Tuesday to Tuesday, with an eight-day on, six-day off schedule. In addition to a $1,100 sign-on bonus and limited affordable housing offered, Field Instructors begin earning $180/day for their first three shifts. Pay progresses up to $325/day as Instructor's work on personal and professional development for self-propelled level advancement. Benefits include full health and dental insurance, performance bonuses, and scholarships for professional development. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and current CPR/first aid certification (which Second Nature offers for free). Prospective applicants must attend a week-long Orientation Trip scheduled throughout the year. Learn more at Second-Nature.com.

• Did you know? Most Second Nature staff live in Salt Lake City or Park City, which puts you within an hour's drive of eight world class ski resorts. Skiing or snowboarding not your thing? The region also offers great hiking, climbing, and mountain biking along with a great live music scene. Imagine living in a world-class vacation destination that you call home!

Are you passionate about wilderness and adventure and want to support others on a journey of self-discovery and growth?

Through a unique blend of treatment center programming, adventure therapy, and wilderness strategies, Legacy Outdoor Adventures guides young adults (ages 18-35) on a journey of self-discovery, healthy recovery, and personal growth. Located between Zion and Canyonlands National Parks in Southern Utah, the Legacy base camp provides easy access to inspiring and meaningful adventures in every direction!

Field Guides will supervise and facilitate safe, fun and meaningful adventures for young adults, teach and ensure effective learning in specific areas such as adventure, cooking, navigation and medical skills, and provide individual mentoring and documentation for 3 to 4 clients. Guides work an 8-day-on, 8-day-off schedule, with half the workweek spent on adventures that may include backpacking, canyoneering, rock climbing, fishing, mountain biking, skiing and/or river rafting. Positions are offered seasonally or year-round. Starting pay is at or above $33k and goes up to $45k with experience. Benefits include health insurance, dental and vision, paid time off, and 401k. Guides also receive support in attending and obtaining adventure and therapeutic training and certifications. Male and female applicants must be at least 21, and helpful qualifications include current safety certifications (WFR/EMT), related college degree, previous field guide or related experience, recovery and mental health work experience, professional experience in adventure activities, and leading trips. Legacy is always looking for passionate Guides! Connect with Mike Hinkle for more info or learn more at LegacyOutdoorAdventures.com.

• Field Guides must be able to role model, lead by example, and have the ability to provide leadership that influences others in positive directions. Passion and drive need to be balanced with a welcoming attitude and an openness to embrace new ideas and challenges.

The first of its kind nationally, STAR Guides Wilderness offers wilderness therapy uniquely designed for adolescent boys & girls and young adults struggling with sexual behavior issues. Wilderness therapy has a capacity for creating change unlike any other treatment option available. Functioning as a supervisory and therapeutic role in a small group setting, Field Guides are in charge of planning hikes, teaching survival skills and maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment. Benefits include some of the best pay in the industry at $165-$246/day, an 8-day-on, 6-day-off schedule that allows plenty of off time, and opportunities for bonus pay up to $5,500 within the first year of employment (expect to make up to $48,800 in your first year). Most importantly, the Star Guides culture is fun and rewarding, with staff being considered a vital component of the therapy team. Those who can make a commitment of 9 months or 1 year will receive a signing bonus along with other rewards such as a gear stipend. You will also be trained in the Star Guides philosophy created by three of the top therapists in the industry with weekly and on-the-job training from therapists and experts in the field. If you have a passion for the outdoors, are physically fit to hike and/or backpack 3-10 miles, and are interested in working with adolescents clients journeying towards a holistic life, fill out the online application.

• Leave footprints that matter! Working as a Field Guide is an experience that will change your life forever as you help guide youth towards positive life change. Watch the Field Guide community and culture.

• If you are looking for a fun culture and a proven treatment philosophy that allows plenty of room for your personality and style to shine, join the STAR Guides team of amazing Field Guides.

Come ready to learn, teach, and grow as an ANASAZI TrailWalker!

As a nonprofit wilderness therapy program headquartered in Mesa, Arizona, ANASAZI Foundation gives young people an opportunity, through a primitive living experience and a philosophy that invites healing at the hands of nature, to effect a change of heart—a change in one's whole way of walking in the world.

TrailWalkers (direct care field staff) walk the trail with the same food and gear as the YoungWalkers (students) and in so doing they share in the same experience as those they are guiding forward. Your primary responsibility is to live an exemplary life, teach healthy life skills, and maintain a safe and caring environment. ANASAZI places a great deal of emphasis on TrailWalkers developing healthy relationships with the YoungWalkers and utilizing those relationships, the wilderness, and primitive skills as a medium to teach and help the YoungWalker learn the skills and technologies of the ancient ones and walk forward. TrailWalkers are expected to work 8-day shifts in the field (remote backcountry areas) with 6 days off in between. A MINIMUM of 6 consecutive months of employment is necessary. If invited to training, ANASAZI will provide all the gear a TrailWalker will need to work on the trail (except for personal clothing and boots). Compensation starts at $240/day; health benefits kick in after 60 days. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and willing to live by high personal standard of conduct on and off the trail. If you have a love for people, wilderness and helping others, learn more at Anasazi.org.

• In the 1960s, the founders of ANASAZI learned, as they developed the concepts and principles for the organization, that one's lifestyle and way of being in their personal lives directly impacts the employee's ability to facilitate positive change in the hearts of youth. At ANASAZI it is impossible to work and put on a different persona than you carry with you during your non-work life.

Do you want to be part of the most exciting and fulfilling work you've ever imagined? Join the team at Meramec Adventure Ranch, create a legacy, and change lives!

Using the transformative power of the wilderness and adventure, Meramec Adventure Ranch is dedicated to serving individuals and families whom much of the world has given up on. The Ranch is a unique program—one of the few therapeutic adventure programs left in the country that serve youth in the state system, wounded warriors and their families, youth on the Autism Spectrum with significant behavioral challenges, and siblings separated in foster care.

Summer Adventure Guides lead small groups of youth in residential treatment and other youth in state custody through an exhilarating 10-week summer adventure camp program. Living in tents in the woods, cooking over a fire, and facilitating the daily camp routine, you’ll use activities like ropes courses, team challenges, climbing, kayaking, aquatic adventures, land navigation, and many other adventures in intentional ways to grow young people’s confidence, relationships, and purpose—and help them heal from the past and grow hope for the future. Summer 2025 positions run from May 18th to August 2nd (with a week break over July 4th). Compensation is competitive and based on position and experience, plus all staff receive shared housing and meals when programs are running. Once the summer comes to an end, Adventure Guides have the option to transition into a full-time, year-round Therapeutic Adventure Manager (salaried position with benefits). If you are at least 20, have a calling to serve youth, disciplined work ethic, willingness to have fun, and passionate about being part of what is happening at the Ranch, learn more about this exciting life-changing job opportunity.

The Ranch is also seeking summer Equestrian Instructors and Camp Nurses/Nursing Students.

Meramec's Facebook page is a great source of information!

Perks Working at the Ranch:
• Never have two days that are the same.
• Pro deals, pro deals, pro deals!
• Standing alongside people who have seen incredible adversity, hurt, and pain, and be a part of their stories as they grow to change the world!
• Your success will not be based on the greatness of your techniques or strength of your skills, but on the quality and character of person you are and are becoming.

As a Blue Ridge Instructor, you will develop skills in outdoor education, group facilitation, risk management, assertive communication, mindfulness practices and primitive/wilderness skills!

Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness (BRTW) firmly believes in the therapeutic power of the wilderness. BRTW teaches students how to thrive in life and live in accordance with their values. Staff work with adolescent students and young adults to provide guidance and support around a variety of issues, including addiction, trauma, and relational problems.

The role of Field Instructor is tough to describe without experiencing it—it's a unique blend of wilderness living, primitive skills, and psychology. Candidates don't necessarily need advanced skills in outdoor education or psychology to be considered, but a love of the outdoors, an empowered attitude, an open mind, and an appreciation of personal growth are all prerequisites. With an 8-day-on/6-day-off schedule, staff are invited to teach mindfulness, stretching, games, and other clinical interventions as directed by their group therapist. In addition to a $1,000 sign-on bonus, pay starts at $150/day and moves upwards with staff development to $215/day. Instructors also receive additional overtime pay, PTO, annual bonuses, pro-deal discounts, health insurance, and a heavy emphasis is put on staff training and professional development. A location halfway between Asheville, NC and Atlanta, GA allows staff to live among the best the Southeast has to offer — vibrant cities and miles of trails, rivers, and views to explore! Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. If you demonstrate a track record of leadership and service to others, and are comfortable and confident living in the woods, take a look at Blue Ridge! Training for prospective Instructors is held the first week of every month.

• BRTW Instructors are outdoor educators, group facilitators, risk managers, excellent communicators, story-tellers, and teachers—the perfect job for someone who wants to make a positive impact on youth while working in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Serving as guides and teachers, Confluence Field Mentors engage and empower young adults in health and wellness through outdoor adventure and farm-based activities.

Located in central Vermont near the confluence of the Connecticut and Ompompanoosuc Rivers, Confluence Behavioral Health is a clinically-intensive mental health treatment program serving young adults ages 18-28 with emotional, substance use and relational challenges. The program combines adventure therapy with a residential experience, farm programming, and comprehensive health and wellness services to guide young adults facing mental health challenges towards engaged, positive and fulfilling lives.

Confluence is seeking qualified Field Mentors (full-time, non-seasonal) to facilitate a physically and emotionally safe therapeutic experience. Mentor's comprehensively guide participants through social, emotional and physical challenges with the goal of achieving greater emotional awareness, developing positive change, and fostering growth. Additionally, Mentors serve as guides and teachers for outdoor adventure (hiking, camping, xc skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, rock climbing, teambuilding) and farm-based activities (diet and nutrition, arts and crafts, therapeutic groups, community building, fun and games). Field Mentors work a continuous 8-day/7-night shift consisting of off-site adventure programming and activities on the farm, followed by 6 days off. Compensation starts at $44,000/year with benefits that include a relocation bonus, paid time off, health insurance, pro deals, and fully sponsored training opportunities (WFR, CPR, Lifeguard, Swift Water Rescue, Yoga Instructor, Motivational Interviewing, AEGIS, Mindfulness). If you have a Bachelor's degree, experience in camping and backpacking, and have the desire to join a supportive community dedicated to bettering the lives of young adults, learn more at ConfluenceVT.com.

• Confluence balances the benefits of residential care with the healing power of adventure programming. Both participants and staff feel the effects of a community that brings together whole person health and transformative experiences to create an enthusiasm for life.

As a small and intimate therapeutic wilderness program located in the Mad River Valley of central Vermont, True North Evolution provides personalized therapeutic wellness programs for young adults ages 18 and up and their families. The True North model is intended to inspire and empower students to make positive choices and build strategies for a healthy life.

Playing a pivotal role in the life-changing experience for students, Guides provide 24-hour supervision, run the day-to-day, develop healthy and supportive relationships, and are an integral part of the therapeutic treatment team. Responsibilities include facilitation of team building activities, leading adventures (hiking, backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and rock climbing), and teaching outdoor living skills (camping, fire building, outdoor cooking, and map and compass navigation) and other activities (games, art, yoga, cooking classes, disc golf, field and community service projects, and winter movie nights). This is a year-round position, with some seasonal opportunities available. Two Guides work directly with a group of up to seven students with a 3½-day on, 3½-day off work schedule. Compensation starts at $49,608/year, with benefits that include health insurance, a Simple IRA, extensive pro deals, WFR recertification reimbursement, opportunity to earn up to $450/year towards qualified health and wellness activities, up to $600/year of student loan payment reimbursement, and a $500 signing bonus payable after completion of the first four shifts. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, comfortable working and living in a wilderness setting, demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills, and able to manage challenging situations in the field. If you are flexible, highly motivated, a passion for the outdoors, and have experience working with and a desire to inspire and mentor young adults, fill out the online application.

True North's small, close-knit community of professionals provides an inspiring and nurturing experience for students and their families.

• As a True North Guide you will create unique experiences for your students that integrates the development of interpersonal and life skills, small group living, experiential activities, daily journal writing and personal reflection, and adventure-based expeditions.

Summit Achievement combines the best features of a wilderness program and special needs boarding school by integrating a residential milieu and traditional academic instruction with outdoor adventure-based therapy. Using the White Mountain National Forest in Maine and New Hampshire for the majority of their course area, students on expedition master a variety of outdoor living skills, including camp craft, navigational skills and backcountry safety.

Field Guides are responsible for providing supervision, guidance, mentorship and instruction to a small group of adolescents with mild to moderate social, emotional and educational challenges. Responsibilities include facilitating activities, group processing sessions, 4-season backcountry expeditions and working as a member of a team fulfilling the duties of a Logistician, Medic or Team Leader. Summer seasonal (May through mid-August) and year-round positions are available, with a work shift schedule from Tuesday to Tuesday every other week. Compensation starts at $249.82/day, plus health insurance, paid time off that ranges from 1-4 weeks, a 401K with 4% employer match, professional development assistance for classes, conferences and certifications, and pro deal purchases. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a Bachelor’s degree in a relative field, experience working with youth from the ages of 13–20 preferably in an outdoor setting, a knack for building rapport and having fun, an easy-going personality but able to get things done, and most importantly, to be flexible. WFR/WEMT certification is preferred. To apply, email your resume and cover letter (specifying whether you're looking for year-round or seasonal work) to Anson McNulty.

• Guides leading adventure experiences with Summit Achievement will take students out of their comfort zone and familiar environments by immersing them in unfamiliar backcountry settings. Through a series of activities that are demanding physically, mentally and emotionally, students quickly learn that old ways of coping are ineffective when pitted against the challenges and consequences of nature.

• The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) serves as a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people beleaguered by emotional and behavioral difficulties. Members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness programs, outdoor therapeutic programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs.

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