| This qualitative study explored the perspectives of practitioners of adventure-based learning and therapy. As a practitioner myself, I wanted to know what it meant for practitioners to thrive in this work and their personal lives. And thus, I employed a phenomenological and autoethnographic exploration and hermeneutic analysis of practitioners of adventure-based learning and therapy for youth at risk. This involved 8 open-ended interviews with a diverse range of practitioners in addition to personal journaling to shed light on practitioner perspectives on this work. This study is groundbreaking in that it begins to fill the apparent void in research about practitioner process in this field. The findings indicated that practitioners believe that deep connection between students, themselves, and nature are the most fundamental components that contribute to their ability to thrive in this work and their lives. This study has implications not only for this field but also for allied healing professions to promote a more integrated, relational approach to healing. Further research is necessary to more deeply explore the impact of relationships on students and practitioners in addition to their connection with the natural world. |
