There are four basic components to help students discover where their negative habits and behaviors are leading them, learn how to make positive changes, and implement those changes:

Outdoor Experience
Coming to an outdoor experience removes students from the many distractions of our modern society. This shift of environment allows students to set external images aside and acquire the necessary skills to care for themselves. The wilderness setting acts as a catalyst that moves students out of their comfort zones. As students adjust to their new surroundings, Outback counselors observe their negative habits and positively involve students in safe and constructive activities, as well as in therapeutic sessions that encourage them to begin thinking more insightfully and start replacing negative thoughts and habits with positive ones.

Individualized Treatment
Every student has unique experiences and trials. At Outback, all students are given individual time with their therapist to discuss their progress and opportunities for personal growth. After every individual therapy session, parents receive a phone call from their child's therapist to discuss the student's progress, goals, and future treatment plans. This creates a truly individualized program for each student and family.

The Family
A vital component to the Outback program is family involvement. Parents are involved in every step of their child's progress. Weekly conference calls with their Outback therapist allow parents to be updated on progress, and provide the opportunity for them to offer insights into specific challenges. Parents are also invited to write letters - which are delivered every Monday - as well as participate in a one-day seminar and an in-field family therapy session before completing the experience. Outback helps both the student and the parents "see the way." With both student and parents on the same path, continued change and progress is much more achievable.

Peer Interaction
Outback students are organized into single-gender groups of between six and nine students. Daily group sessions provide a forum for addressing group dynamics, individual character development, and specific topics that are identified in the treatment plan. A balance of support, structure, and peer involvement makes Outback groups an effective part of the treatment. Students also mentor new arrivals, which further aids in the acceptance of personal responsibility and insight. This interaction between students provides an excellent opportunity for reflection.

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