BlueFire Wilderness Therapy Reviews: What You Need to Know
BlueFire Wilderness Therapy is a program to help teens and young adults struggling with emotional, behavioural, and mental health
BlueFire Wilderness Therapy is a program to help teens and young adults struggling with emotional, behavioural, and mental health issues.
Combining wilderness adventure therapy, clinical therapy, and family therapy, BlueFire aims to promote personal growth, self-discovery, and healing.
If you’re considering this program for your child, understanding its impact through reviews and testimonials is essential.
What is BlueFire Wilderness Therapy?
Location: BlueFire is in the scenic high desert of southern Idaho, providing a calm, distraction-free environment perfect for healing and growth.
Program Structure: The program usually lasts between 8 to 12 weeks. Participants engage in hiking, camping, and rock climbing to build resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
Therapeutic Approach:
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with licensed therapists.
- Group Therapy: Peer support through facilitated group discussions.
- Family Therapy: Sessions aimed at improving communication and relationships within the family.
- Experiential Therapy: Activities such as art, music, and mindfulness to promote self-discovery and emotional expression.
Positive Reviews
- Transformation and Personal Growth: Many parents report significant positive changes in their children’s behaviour and outlook. Participants often return with improved self-esteem and better coping skills.
- Skilled and Caring Staff: BlueFire’s team receives high praise for its expertise and dedication. Therapists, field guides, and support staff are described as compassionate and knowledgeable.
- Effective Therapy Methods: The blend of wilderness and traditional therapy methods is often cited as highly effective.
- Family Involvement: Parents appreciate the family therapy sessions, which help them support their child’s growth even after the program ends.
Areas for Improvement
- Communication: Some reviews suggest that communication between staff and families could be more consistent and timely, especially regarding participant progress updates.
- Cost: While many feel the investment is worthwhile, the price can be a barrier for some families.
- Adjustment Period: Participants’ initial adjustment to the wilderness environment can be challenging, but it’s often seen as a necessary part of growth.
Real Testimonials
From Parents:
- “Sending our son to BlueFire was tough, but it was our best decision. He returned more confident and responsible. The staff were amazing, and the therapy sessions were very effective.”
- “The family therapy sessions were beneficial. We learned to communicate better and support our daughter. The change in her has been remarkable.”
From Participants:
- “I was really angry and lost before BlueFire. The wilderness was tough initially, but the guides and therapists helped me see my strengths. I’m leaving with a new perspective on life and better ways to handle my emotions.”
- “BlueFire pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I’ve made friends, discovered a lot about myself, and learned skills I’ll use forever.”