At PSU, future counselors trade the classroom for the wilderness in Adventure Therapy — a unique course that blends backpacking, resilience and therapeutic practice. From first-time campers to seasoned hikers, students push past fear, build connections and discover new ways to support clients during a three-day trek around Timothy Lake.
“Being uncomfortable creates connections and builds skills you can’t replicate in a classroom,” says PSU clinical mental health counseling student Makena Buser.
Read more on PSU’s blog, Inside Portland State, to see how this trail experience is shaping the next generation of counselors.