Degree Date

4-2024

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Ed.D. Doctor of Education

Academic Discipline

Counselor Education and Supervision

First Advisor

Dr. Marguerite Chabau, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Dr. Joffrey Suprina, Ph.D.

Abstract

Drug overdose deaths in the United States continue to rise. In 2019, over 70,000 drug overdose deaths were recorded, marking a 4% increase from the previous year (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). More recent estimates suggest the death toll exceeded 100,000 in a twelve-month period ending in April 2021, indicating a significant rise (Johnson, 2021). The high mortality rate linked to addiction highlights the necessity for effective interventions for individuals diagnosed with SUD. The study presented focused on the impact of Adventure Therapy (AT) as an addition to the treatment of adults diagnosed with SUD. The chosen research methodology for this study was qualitative research, which was deemed appropriate due to its capacity for generating comprehensive transformations in data collection. This approach was employed to gain a deeper understanding of Adventure Therapy (AT) as a context-specific social phenomenon. Exploring the phenomena of Adventure Therapy, the study found benefits with incorporating AT into the treatment schedule for individuals participating in SUD treatment. Participants reported they experienced mindfulness and anxiety management strategies, bonding with peers, and increased self-confidence. Three themes emerged through the data collection: 1) Positive experiences with AT led patients to desire to continue with this mode of therapy, 2) Participants perceive AT as having a beneficial impact on their treatment and recovery, and 3) Participants expressed preferences and concerns regarding AT.

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