| Abstract: | Abstract This paper examines information on the histories, definitions, and components of adventure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to determine if cognitive behavioral therapy provides a theoretical basis upon which the efficacy of adventure therapy can be judged. It is found that adventure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy share aspects including transformation of distorted thinking patterns, a focus on current and future functioning, consideration of the interrelationship between the counselor and the client, and understanding the use of stress as a part of the change process. By recognizing cognitive behavioral therapy as the empirically sound, underlying theory for adventure therapy researchers will be able to determine the effective components of therapy in the outdoors. |
