Challenge by Choice: Adventure-Based Counseling for Seriously Ill Adolescents

Adventure-based programming, a component of adventure therapy, is an intentional practice used in summer camps, community-based youth agencies, and other organizations to promote inter- and intrapersonal growth and change. This programming has gained popularity in addressing personal growth, as well as specific problems, including substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, and other life challenges. Adventure-based programming addresses the developmental needs of seriously ill adolescents on several levels. This article describes adventure-based programming in the context of its effectiveness and utility in a summer camp program for children who have life-threatening illnesses.