Stories from the Field: Mental Health and the Outdoors

De: Will White
  • Resumen

  • Stories from the Field: Mental Health in the Outdoors is an authoritative and enlightening podcast that explores the vast landscape of mental health therapies in outdoor settings. Hosted by seasoned mental health professional Dr. Will White, the podcast offers deep insights into outdoor therapies like Adventure Therapy, Eco-Therapy, Wilderness Therapy, and Experiential Therapy, among others. Dr. White engages with a diverse range of guests, including leading researchers, practitioners, authors, executive directors, guide staff, mental health clinicians, and critics, helping to shed light on the nuances of these unique therapy practices. In addition to exploring the modern implications of these evolving therapeutic modalities, he delves into their rich history, providing a holistic perspective for listeners. With over 30 years of experience at the juncture of mental health and outdoor environments, Dr. White's expertise is unparalleled. As a co-founder of the pioneering Summit Achievement, an adventure therapy program based in Maine, he has been a guiding force in the field since the 1990s. His scholarly contributions include the book "Stories from the Field: A History of Wilderness Therapy" and a chapter in "Adventure Therapy: Theories, Research, and Practice." His doctorate work, "Stories from the Elders: Chronicles and Narratives from the Early Years of Wilderness Therapy," traced the origins and evolution of this specialized field. To connect with Dr. White, visit storiesfromthefield.com. Listen to this immersive podcast to understand the power and potential of outdoor therapies in addressing mental health concerns.
    Will White, 2018
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Episodios
  • 268: Helping Fathers Thrive: Jason Frishman on Journeymen Foundation, Mental Health, and Outdoor Growth
    Apr 22 2025

    In this heartfelt episode, Will welcomes Dr. Jason Frishman, clinical psychologist and founder of the Journeymen Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping fathers foster connection, resilience, and growth through community and mentorship. Jason shares how his years of clinical practice led him to create Journeymen, moving beyond traditional therapy models to build spaces where fathers can share stories, support one another, and rediscover their essential role at home and in their own lives. The conversation explores why so many fathers feel isolated in today’s world, the importance of redefining masculinity and emotional connection, and how outdoor experiences and shared adventures serve as catalysts for personal transformation.

    Jason also shares a personal story about a camping trip with his infant son and wife that reshaped his understanding of adventure, family, and resilience. Together, Jason and Will discuss how stepping into discomfort, embracing imperfection, and finding meaning in the mundane can foster profound emotional growth. If you're a father—or if you support fathers—this conversation offers powerful insights into building lasting connection, challenging outdated narratives of manhood, and finding healing through nature, story, and community.

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    49 m
  • 267: The Tragedy on Mount Washington That Changed Search and Rescue: Ty Gagne on “The Lions of Winter”
    Apr 15 2025

    In this powerful episode Will sits down with acclaimed author and risk management expert Ty Gagne to discuss his latest book, The Lions of Winter: Survival and Sacrifice on Mount Washington. Ty takes listeners behind the scenes of the tragic 1982 search and rescue mission that claimed the life of volunteer Albert Dow—an event that forever changed New Hampshire’s backcountry rescue protocols. Through gripping storytelling and deep reflection, Ty illuminates the heroism, emotional toll, and legacy of this landmark incident, shedding light on the psychological challenges faced by rescuers and the evolution of mountain safety over the past four decades.

    The conversation also explores the unique dangers of the White Mountains, the increasing number of unprepared adventurers, and the importance of humility and preparation when heading into unpredictable wilderness environments. Ty shares a poignant personal story about witnessing a breathtaking sunrise on Mount Washington just before the COVID-19 shutdown—a moment that reflects the deep connection between nature and mental wellness. As both an outdoor enthusiast and risk professional, Ty brings unparalleled insight into how outdoor tragedy can lead to meaningful change, compassion, and understanding. This episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about the outdoors, mental health, and the human stories behind survival and loss.

    To purchase The Lions of Winter: Survival and Sacrifice on Mount Washington or any of Ty’s other books check out his website: https://www.fullconditionsnh.com

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    43 m
  • 266: Healing in the Wild: Audrey Costa on Nature, Addiction, and Personal Transformation
    Apr 8 2025

    In this powerful episode Will speaks with Audrey Costa, founder of Deep Rooted Wellness and Creatives, about her powerful journey from personal hardship to purposeful healing. Audrey opens up about her struggles with addiction, parenting through adversity, and how turning to nature—and backpacking in particular—transformed her mental health. Through her vulnerability and wisdom, she shares how movement, nature, and creativity became the cornerstones of her recovery and the foundation for her work with others.

    Audrey also dives into her nature-based offerings, including trauma-informed hiking experiences, Wild Resilience backpacking retreats for women, and custom healing experiences for those navigating grief or burnout. As a soon-to-be clinical mental health counselor, Audrey blends her fitness and wellness expertise with deep emotional insight to create spaces where others can find strength, self-discovery, and peace in the outdoors. Tune in for a heartfelt, honest, and empowering conversation about healing through connection—to ourselves, to others, and to nature.

    Check out Audrey’s website: https://www.deeprootedwellnessandcreatives.com/

    Discover upcoming men’s retreats that our podcast host, Will White is facilitating at WMAI.org.

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    39 m
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