Summary
We are most inspired by the 25,000 youth we have had the great privilege of learning from.
Foundational to our methodology is our Holistic and Humanistic approach. We strive to be contextually informed — seeing each of the parts, the whole, and the relational dynamics that make up a system. It’s an easy jump then, to a person-centered, authentic relationship model in which we are all lifelong learners.
We heavily utilize modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Core Gift Interviews, and a trauma-informed lens to nurture strengths-based, emergent, personal growth. Social and Emotional Learning core competencies are embedded in all of our programming. We cultivate relationships with wonder, awe, and nature. Our inquiry into the eco-systems of self, each other, and nature shines a light on our interdependence.
The rhythms and signposts in the flow state cycle are key maps for accessing human potential in mind and body. We explore better ways to struggle and recover, and how to glean maximum benefit from embodied peak experiences in nature - such as climbing, kayaking, snowboarding or walking on a forest trail. We anchor these with present moment awareness practices to further develop new neural pathways.
We take a bottom-up approach in aligning with the physiology of mental and physical health. Connecting with the body, and our nervous system, grounds us in meeting each other, and ourselves, where we are. By working through the body, we all strengthen our sense of self, play with our balance - literally and metaphorically - and we feel how to experiment with new patterns. “What else is possible?” deepens our sense of wholeness when it toggles with “being with what is”. Exploring this toggle, through a relational frame, is how we heal.
Our nature connections are strengthened by Mindfulness, Environmental Literacy, Deep Ecology, Joseph Cornell’s “Sharing Nature with Children,” Forest Bathing, the exceptional work of Nature Journaling by John Muir Laws and field science standards that align with NGSS, STEAM, and Common Core.