Second Nature is entering a new phase of leadership, with longtime Clinical Director Dr. Steve DeBois stepping into the role of CEO and assuming ownership of the program. The transition reflects a continuation of the work that has defined Second Nature for more than two decades, rather than a shift in direction.
After 22 years collaborating with founder Dr. Devan Glissmeyer to shape the nature-based therapeutic program’s clinical foundation and growth, Steve’s leadership reflects a natural evolution. Devan will remain actively involved as a primary therapist and Founder Emeritus, continuing his direct work with students and families.
“Devan has always been at the heart of this work,” Steve shared. “He was one of the early visionaries who really understood how important it is to integrate strong clinical treatment with outdoor experiences and bring families into the work in a meaningful way. What I respect most is that, after all these years, what still matters most to him is working with our students, families, and our staff who facilitate the work. That’s a big part of why Second Nature has stood the test of time; it’s always been clinically sophisticated and grounded in what actually helps people.”
“It’s been a privilege to be out there each week with students and to be part of so many families’ stories,” Devan shared. “I’m really looking forward to continuing that work, and I couldn’t feel better about Steve stepping in to lead. He knows this work deeply and cares about it in all the right ways.”
While ownership is evolving, the core of the program remains unchanged. At Second Nature, therapy is woven into daily life, giving students real-time opportunities to practice emotional regulation, communication, and accountability, while also engaging in meaningful family work and staying on track academically through our accredited private school.
The transition comes at a time when families are looking more closely at what truly leads to lasting change, and research continues to support the effectiveness and safety of comprehensive, clinically sophisticated nature-based treatment for adolescents and families.
For 28 years, referring professionals and families have come to Second Nature when other approaches haven’t created lasting change. Strong clinical assessment, thoughtful treatment planning, real relationships, and working with families through complex clinical dynamics will remain at the center of Second Nature under Steve’s direction.
As it moves into this next phase, the program's commitment is simple: to stay grounded in what works, to keep evolving where it matters, and to continue showing up for families in ways that lead to meaningful, lasting change. Second Nature also remains grateful for the incredible support it has received over the years from consultants, programs, and families who believe in the transformative power of nature-based therapy.
About Second Nature
Founded in 1998, Second Nature is a licensed outdoor residential treatment program in Utah for adolescents ages 13–17. The program integrates sophisticated clinical treatment with a nature-based setting, where students build emotional regulation, accountability, and communication skills, strengthen relationships, and parents are actively involved in the therapeutic process. Living outdoors, with consistent support, they gain confidence in their ability to handle challenges that once felt overwhelming—all in an environment that doesn’t feel clinical.
Second Nature serves teens facing a range of mental health challenges, including trauma, behavioral and developmental issues, oppositional defiance, substance use, learning differences, academic underperformance, and attachment and relational difficulties. Treatment is individualized, with flexible lengths of stay, small group settings, and access to psychiatric support as needed.