The next frontier: Wilderness therapy and the treatment of complex trauma

Advances in neuroscience and epigenetics within the field of trauma research and practice have progressed rapidly over the last two decades. Yet, a therapeutic practice with its roots in the ancient connection with outdoor environment still offers simple living as fundamental to healing. This chapter examines recent gains in knowledge, briefly differentiates trauma from complex trauma, compares these therapeutic processes with existing practice, and suggests a synthesis of old and new. The author concludes that wilderness therapy is equipped to be efficacious, yet to do so the field must be prepared to explore the next frontier in the healing of human brains, bodies, and minds. The changes to therapeutic practice required may be profound but are not necessarily as complicated as complex trauma.