ROCK CLIMBING, HORSEBACK RIDING, ANIMAL CARE, AND OUTDOOR EXPLORATION - ALL AT OUR RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER FOR BOYS

How Equine Therapy is Beneficial for our Students?

Equine therapy is beneficial to our youth as it breaks down the stigma and walls some may have when they are in a therapy office. Equine therapy is able to bring to light fears, relationship patterns, and focuses on the value system of the youth. Utilizing a horse allows the child to be objective about the issues presented and breaks down the defenses when issues arise. Rather than making the issue about one's self, you are able to put it on the horse and work through the issue while working with the horse. 

Tirzah Mojica

Clinical Director

Kiva Adventure Ranch

Why I Use Nature in my therapy sessions?

Personally, it has always been a vehicle for me to find myself and my sanity. From my younger years of surfing and playing in the hills of Southern California to moving to Utah and becoming a field guide, it has always been my own place for reflection and a cure for ancestral longing. 

Therapeutically, it can and does transform a person into a curious, adventurous, primal, human being that discovers belonging, connection/disconnection, empowerment/insecurity, wonderment, personal insight and a different perspective. 

In the words of LaVoy Tolbert, “Living within the confines of the simplicity provided by nature, one gains an appreciation for what one has as well as for what one had that is no longer enjoyed. Here one can ponder the difference between what we need and what we want. This is an important distinction because it empowers one to take chances one would otherwise be afraid to take. One is more likely to pursue one’s “love” with this knowledge than without”.

David Saldaña MSW, LCSW

Primary Therapist

Kiva Adventure Ranch

How Learning to Work with you hands can Benefit our Students

You are one bike ride away from a good mood. Bikes are the typical first step into the bigger world. Having the freedom to be able to ride bikes allows for a person to find balance both on and off the bike. Bicycle repair and maintenance parallels the challenges that we face in life, even when things seem to be going smoothly, we all need some time to make sure that all parts of our Self are being taken care of. It also gives a skill that the youth can use at home and well into adulthood, giving opportunities for them to build relationships with the next generation. Cycling is meditation in motion.

Matthew Kiefer

Primary Therapist

Kiva Adventure Ranch

BELIEVE . BELONG . BECOME