Remuda Ranch

Challenge Course Overview

“Everyday, I watch our patients take on challenges, conquer fears and discover whole new ways to deal with life. After a couple hours on the ropes course, most of our patients say, ‘if I can do this, I can do anything.’” Dave Woods, Challenge Course Manager

Remuda Ranch believes in the value of experiential therapies. We want our patients to learn new skills, then have the opportunity to put them to use. One innovative way new skills are put to practice is on the Ropes Challenge Course. Our Challenge course offers both high and low activities. Both involve an intricate network of ropes, cables and logs; the exclusive difference between the two courses is height. The high ropes course is twenty to forty feet in the air, while the low ropes course is one to four feet off the ground. We also have a rock climbing wall and a zip line.

Our goal is for every patient to visit the challenge course at least twice during her stay, provided she is deemed medically capable. She may go as part of a group, or in an individual session with her therapist. Patients must wear a helmet, safety harness and remain attached to a safety line while engaging in these activities.

All activities are designed to address specific therapeutic issues. Often these are areas patients are currently exploring in individual or group therapy. These include group communication, problem solving, trust, planning, teamwork, facing fear, cooperation, understanding self and self-esteem.

Safety is our primary concern, which is why patients are always surrounded by trained staff. Yet, we do recognize that safety is a broader issue than just physical safety. No one is ever forced or coerced to participate. We believe in “CHALLENGE BY CHOICE.”

A high level of communication is encouraged throughout the activity and during the process session following the experience. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, insights and feelings, both as they apply to themselves or to one another. By taking part in this experiential and discussion, patients gain valuable insight about themselves, others, life and their relationship with God.

For additional information about Remuda Programs, please call 1-800-445-1900 today.