New CAPS Adventure Therapy Group With University Recreation + Wellness

Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) has created a new therapy group in partnership with University Recreation + Wellness titled "Experiencing Self and Others: UREC." This adventure therapy group is designed as an early intervention for college students who are struggling with interpersonal issues such as social anxiety, conflict resolution and trust in self and others.  

Any U of A student can join a CAPS group therapy session, as it is covered by the student health and wellness fee, which means that there is no additional cost to attend. Access to mental health resources is a core component of the Division of Student Affairs' priority of well-being for the U of A community. Students who wish to join a CAPS group are required to complete an initial consultation appointment with CAPS and a group screening during the semester they wish to join a group.  

For the adventure therapy group, students will participate in weekly sessions, which will include a mountain biking clinic and a climbing clinic. This experiential processing group is designed to build a stronger sense of self-worth in participants. "For students who may be hesitant to engage in traditional therapy, adventure therapy provides similar opportunities for deep and meaningful self-reflection while directly experiencing community, nature and problem-solving strategies," said Amy Ference, CAPS mental health clinician. 

Sessions will help students learn coping mechanisms to help them reduce stress. It is expected that as participants explore and learn to celebrate their natural strengths through adventure-based activities, they will learn to find trust in themselves and in others. 

About Counseling and Psychological Services: Counseling and Psychological Services is committed to supporting University of Arkansas students by offering a wide range of mental health services. We offer critical mental health services such as short-term individual counseling, group counseling, 24/7 emergency mental health services, and case management. We promote student autonomy and empowerment in planning their care through our Care Matching Model and most of our services are covered by the Student Health and Wellness Fee, to ensure access to critical mental health services. Counseling and Psychological Services is a department within the Division of Student Affairs. Learn more at health.uark.edu.