Navigating Adventure Therapy: Using Existential Theory as a Guide

Authors

• Cian L. Brown, University of OklahomaFollow
• David D. Christian, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
• Patrick L.R. McMillion, University of Westminster
• J. Reece McLain, University of Oklahoma

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2025

Keywords

adventure therapy, culturally responsive practice, existential theory, meaning-making, therapeutic process

Abstract

A clinician's theoretical orientation serves as a foundational guide that embodies their values and beliefs for creating therapeutic change. Adventure therapy (AT) is an experiential modality that uses kinesthetic experiences as metaphors to promote client growth. Due to its transtheoretical nature, AT practitioners often end up being atheoretical in their facilitation, thus decreasing the potential benefits to clients. In this manuscript, we propose the use of existential Theory to guide AT by integrating the existential givens and welts with key components of AT. A case example is provided to demonstrate guided application.

Comments

Web of Science

Wiley

Citation

Brown, C. L., D. D. Christian, P. L. R. McMillion, and J. R. McLain. 2025. “ Navigating Adventure Therapy: Using Existential Theory as a Guide.” The Journal of Humanistic Counseling 64, no. 2: 116–129. https://doi.org/10.1002/johc.12240