The wilderness programs experience is a precursor to a more intensive therapeutic program.  Programs are located throughout the country from Washington to Georgia and Arizona to Vermont.  Groups of about eight are single gender; generally operate several miles from “civilization” and last for four to seven weeks.  The objective is to prepare the student for entry into long term (9 to 24 months) residential therapy through promotion of self-efficacy and personal autonomy; restructuring of the therapist-client relationship and development of a therapeutic social group.