For Ryland Arnold, one transformative study abroad experience wasn’t enough. After an enriching undergraduate journey at the University of Arkansas, Arnold sought another opportunity to expand his horizons. This time, as a graduate student pursuing his master’s degree in counseling, he embarked on a three-week study abroad program in New Zealand, where he explored the field of adventure therapy.
The course, which introduced Arnold to a dynamic form of psychotherapy centered on experiential education, proved to be a life-changing experience. Through various outdoor activities and challenges, Arnold not only enhanced his counseling skills but also reignited his passion for mental health advocacy in his local community of Northwest Arkansas.
Immersive Learning Through Adventure Therapy
Adventure therapy, a unique form of psychotherapy, focuses on experiential activities like hiking, zip-lining, and other outdoor pursuits to promote mental well-being. Research has shown that adventure therapy can significantly improve self-esteem, resilience, and a variety of other psychological outcomes. Arnold’s decision to take part in the adventure therapy course reflected his deep commitment to mental health support and his desire to incorporate innovative therapeutic techniques into his future practice.
“New Zealand provided such a unique setting to learn and expand my counseling skills,” said Arnold, a Fayetteville native. “Graduate school can be challenging, and it’s important to fully embrace opportunities that keep you focused on your long-term goals. This experience revitalized my passion and commitment to providing mental health services to the Northwest Arkansas community.”
Arnold’s trip took him through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes, giving him a chance to combine professional development with adventure. Among the highlights of the course were hiking Little Mount Peel in Geraldine, gliding down a forested zipline in Queenstown, and visiting Tekapo, a Dark Sky Reserve renowned for its breathtaking views of the night sky.
A Journey Into the Night Sky
One of Arnold’s most memorable moments during the course came at Tekapo, a location known for its minimal light pollution and pristine views of the stars. With limited artificial light, the night sky in Tekapo is a rare sight, making it a haven for stargazers and astronomers alike.
“Our outdoor experiences were incredible,” Arnold recalled. “At Tekapo, we were able to clearly see the Milky Way for the first time. Some of my classmates even managed to capture photos of it on their iPhones. Despite how cold it was, I couldn’t help but stay outside and stare up into the night sky.”
Such experiences weren’t just thrilling for Arnold—they also underscored the value of adventure therapy. By stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and engaging with the natural environment, participants are encouraged to reflect on their emotional and psychological resilience, which in turn aids personal growth and healing. For Arnold, this form of therapy aligned perfectly with his long-term goal of becoming a licensed counselor who integrates outdoor activities into his practice.
Guidance from Faculty Experts
The adventure therapy course was led by two faculty members from the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas: David Christian, director of the college’s Adventure Therapy Lab, and Merry Moiseichik, a professor of recreation and sport management. Their expertise guided Arnold and his fellow students through a curriculum that blended therapeutic concepts with real-world application in the great outdoors.
Through activities like hiking and zip-lining, students were not only learning about adventure therapy but also experiencing it firsthand. This approach allowed them to develop new counseling strategies while simultaneously building their own emotional resilience. For Arnold, these experiences helped shape his understanding of how adventure therapy can be used to facilitate mental health improvement.
“This experience provided valuable training and insight into adventure therapy and activity facilitation,” Arnold said. “It helped me to step out of my comfort zone, challenging what I thought I was capable of. The resilience building I engaged in on this trip modeled the growth I would hope for in my future clients.”
A History of Global Learning
Arnold’s journey to New Zealand was not his first study abroad experience. In 2016, as an undergraduate student at the University of Arkansas, he participated in a three-week program that took him to London, Dublin, and Amman, Jordan. That program focused on conflict resolution, comparing historical tensions in Northern Ireland with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
His previous study abroad experiences played a crucial role in shaping his desire to pursue further international education opportunities. For Arnold, the chance to explore different cultures and perspectives added depth to his understanding of the world, as well as to his counseling practice.
“My earlier study abroad trip was eye-opening in terms of understanding global conflicts and their impact on mental health,” Arnold explained. “The New Zealand trip, however, allowed me to dive deeper into therapeutic methods and to think about how I could use these approaches in my work.”
Looking Toward the Future
Arnold’s passion for mental health services has only grown since his time in New Zealand. With aspirations of becoming a licensed counselor who incorporates outdoor and adventure-based activities into therapy sessions, Arnold sees adventure therapy as a powerful tool for personal development and emotional healing.
The experience in New Zealand, though challenging at times, was instrumental in broadening his perspective. It pushed him out of his comfort zone and provided the kind of hands-on learning that few traditional classroom settings can offer.
“Stepping outside of my comfort zone was a big part of this trip,” Arnold said. “It taught me how to confront challenges head-on and helped me better understand the kind of growth I want to foster in my future clients.”
Arnold also emphasized the importance of building connections with his fellow students during the course. These relationships allowed for a deeper exchange of ideas and perspectives, which further enriched his learning experience. The friendships and professional networks he formed during the program will likely continue to influence his career as a counselor.
Conclusion: A Journey of Professional Growth
Arnold’s second study abroad experience in New Zealand not only expanded his knowledge of adventure therapy but also revitalized his commitment to mental health advocacy. By engaging in outdoor activities that promote resilience and self-discovery, Arnold gained invaluable insights into how adventure therapy can be used to support clients’ mental health.
As he continues his graduate studies at the University of Arkansas, Arnold is focused on incorporating the lessons he learned into his future counseling practice. Whether through hiking, stargazing, or other outdoor pursuits, Arnold is committed to using adventure therapy as a means of helping others navigate their mental health challenges. His journey is a testament to the power of global learning and the transformative impact of experiential education.
Related topics:
