Welcome en Francais Translation by Bart Steck, Volunteer
This Website is an evolving statement by the Therapeutic Adventure Professionals Group (TAPG) of the Association of Experiential Education (AEE) aimed at describing our professional group. It is an effort to bring about an open forum for discussion and learning that is representative of this field of practice.
We invite a broad range of readers including practitioners, insurance companies, government monitors, other professional organizations, students, teachers, consumers, and the general public.We do not assume that our thoughts are inclusive of every application of adventure therapy across the world or even within the United States.
Mission
The Therapeutic Adventure Professional Group is committed to the development and promotion of adventure-based programming and the principles of experiential education in therapeutic settings. We are also committed to the professional development of our members and the profession as a whole.
Statement of Purpose
Therapeutic Adventure is the professional group for those AEE members who work within the fields of health, mental health, corrections, education, and other human service fields. Our primary purpose is to facilitate networking for professionals within our various fields and share information, techniques, and concerns regarding the therapeutic use of adventure. We define therapeutic as moving toward healthy change with intentional interventions. We represent the interests of our membership to the Board and larger professional communities through workshops, conference and pre-conference activities, and best practices development.
Leadership Council & Contact Information
The Leadership Council structure affords the most representation of membership possible, supporting the membership and mission and purpose of TAPG. The Council coordinates activities and provides direction for the professional group. Leadership Council members serve for a term of 3 years. The Council currently has the following positions:
Position | Name | Where |
Past Chair | ||
Chair | ||
Secretary & Internal Public Relations Coordinator | Minnesota, USA | |
Treasurer | ||
Conference Coordinator | ||
Policy & Procedure Development | New Mexico, USA | |
Publications | Ohio, USA | |
Stretching Toward the Next Horizon of Adventure Therapy
Over 90 professionals gathered in May in Columbus, Ohio to celebrate adventure therapy practices and community. Hosted by Camp Mary Orton the conference featured world class speakers including: Lee Gillis, Christian Itin, Tony Alvarez, Mark Ames, Gil Greene, and Maurie Lung. Topics included the state of experiential education, incorporating research into practice, how to undertake the task of making research and evidence-based practice more available to practitioners, and how to build a meaningful community. Workshop topics included information on best practices, research, ethics, cultural competence, trauma informed adventure therapy and theory. A progressive community dinner was framed by Mark Ames and his telling of his own hero’s journey. Three campfires were graciously hosted by member organizations Alaska Crossings, Wendigo Lakes and Coyote Trails. Several participants have contacted us to comment on their positive experience, “I can’t believe how emotional and powerful it was, I feel changed.” Thank you to everyone involved. If you like what you just read please consider attending the 2010 TAPG Preconference in Vegas this year! It is sure to delight and inspire all who attend!
