DURANGO, Colo., May 5, 2021 – Open Sky Wilderness Therapy is adding a new program for early adolescent students to its menu of services. The program, which is specifically designed to meet the developmental needs of students ages 12-14, provides wilderness therapy to early adolescents struggling with a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and defiance. Informed by Open Sky’s commitment to family systems therapy, the early adolescent program actively engages the entire family in the therapeutic process, as well as incorporates creative, play-based and experiential activities to help students develop crucial interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. Enrollment is scheduled to begin June 1.

The early adolescent program is led by Program Director Liz Lucarelli, MS, NCC, LCMHC, RPT. Lucarelli has extensive experience working with kids ages 12-14 and their families in wilderness settings. As Program Director, she manages program and curriculum development, staff training and clinical oversight. Clinical therapists Mark Sobel, LCSW and Julia Lehr, MSSW, CSW, AMFT work directly with students in the field to provide a powerful wilderness therapy experience. Both Sobel and Lehr specialize in treating early adolescents and boast years of experience working with this unique population.

Open Sky is also partnering with Medicine Horse Center, a nonprofit based in Mancos, Colo., to provide early adolescent students with equine-assisted therapy on a weekly basis. Medicine Horse also offers drumming, art, journaling, clay and other creative activities to assist in early adolescent students’ treatment. Additionally, the early adolescent program meets curriculum standards, allowing students the opportunity to earn up to 3.5 academic credits.

For more information about Open Sky’s early adolescent program, contact Open Sky’s admissions team at 970-759-8324 or visit: https://www.openskywilderness.com/our-programs/approach-early-adolescents.

About Open Sky Wilderness Therapy
Open Sky Wilderness Therapy is the premier family-centered wilderness therapy experience for early adolescents (12-14), adolescents (14-17), young adults (18-30) and their families, since 2006. Nestled in the mountains of southwest Colorado and the canyon country of southeast Utah, the Open Sky approach transcends traditional wilderness therapy by emphasizing treatment for the whole family. This approach integrates the latest in evidence-based clinical modalities with innovative, research-driven holistic healing practices such as yoga, meditation and other mindfulness practices. When a family partners with Open Sky, they embark on a rewarding adventure of self-discovery and learn valuable skills that promote lasting success. Learn more at www.openskywilderness.com.