Kanab, UT – WinGate, a wilderness therapy program for struggling youth and young adults, is excited to announce that John Cohen, LCPC, will be joining WinGate as the Clinical Director, and Primary Therapist for the young adult program, WinGate Expanse. John is returning to WinGate, where he was a Primary Therapist from 2010 – 2013. During that time, he also served as Assistant Clinical Director and Clinical Director. 

“We are excited to have John rejoin the WinGate team,” says Sheri Gallagher, Operations Director and Co-founder. “He has learned a lot by being at other programs and is bringing an energetic, and vibrant vision to our young adult program.”

As Clinical Director, John will oversee the therapeutic direction of WinGate’s young adult program. He will ensure the highest quality of care is provided, and train and oversee other young adult clinicians. On his new role as WinGate’s Expanse Clinical Director, John said, “I believe I am a good leader and program developer. I also learn a lot from, and enjoy mentoring younger therapists.” 

As a Primary Therapist, John will assess each client’s needs, provide personalized therapeutic treatment plans, and facilitate weekly one-on-one sessions with clients. He will also provide family support and communication, ensuring congruent growth within the family relational dynamic. WinGate runs groups year-round, with an average of six to ten clients. Intentionally keeping group numbers within this range, WinGate makes sure each client’s therapeutic needs are met. 

Additionally, John’s experiences that will benefit WinGate moving forward include:

• Previous tenure at WinGate as a therapist
• Previous experience in starting two young adult wilderness therapy programs
• Providing therapeutic services for several divergent populations
• Knowledge and expertise in different clinical approaches and modalities

“I’m excited to return to the program where I came into my own as a wilderness therapist,” says John.  “I’m returning because I believe in the model, and love the people who make up Wingate. It feels like I’m coming home.”

“We loved having John on our team before,” says Shayne Gallagher, WinGate’s Executive Director and Co-founder. “We are very happy to have him on our team again! He has returned home!”

About WinGate Wilderness Therapy

WinGate is a therapeutic wilderness program located in southern Utah, in the Grand Staircase National Monument. The program provides personalized treatment for teens, ages 14-17; and young adults, ages 18 and over. WinGate passionately provides the best clinical service and highest quality of care in treating those who are struggling and need support. WinGate specializes in treating a range of issues, including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, failure to launch, substance abuse, and mal-coping mechanisms. WinGate believes that establishing a respectful, and caring relationship with clients, allows for dynamic and lasting growth.