Who can I check with about my camp choice? Who regulates therapeutic wilderness camps? Are they accredited?

Therapeutic wilderness camp's exist in almost every state. Each state regulates therapeutic wilderness camping in its own particular way, regulations vary from state to state, some have none at all. This happens because each state began its regulations from a different base. Some began in the child welfare department. Some began in Human Services, some in Corrections. Hence, each state is unique in how and what it regulates. There is no base line to compare from, so you need to be ready when you talk to your state therapeutic wilderness camp regulators, keeping in mind how they began. Ask them if they are aware of any complaints regarding the camp of your choice. Check with the nearest better business bureau. Ask the camp officials if they are involved in any law suits related to their services.

Accreditation is relatively new for therapeutic wilderness camping. NATWC has helped the Council on Accreditation, a large mental health accreditation organization, establish a special set of standards for therapeutic wilderness camps and several camps are currently undergoing the two year process. These standards are excellent and represent not only mental health considerations but wilderness skills as well.

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