Therapeutic Model

The Pacific Quest gardens offer a dynamic medium for therapeutic growth. Central to the therapeutic model is the experiential nature of the program and holistic approach to well-being. The program structure, intentional design of the phases, curriculum, daily activities, focus on health and wellness, and peer culture, complement the individual treatment plan providing the foundation for developing personal awareness and cultivating tools for personal development. Individualized treatment objectives and strategies are created by the clinicians and implemented by the entire treatment team. The gardens and camp life provide daily opportunities for students to put words and ideas into action. The blend of therapeutics and experiential education lends itself to sustainable growth, allowing students the ability to apply healthy coping skills beyond the shores of the Hawaiian Islands.

Individual and group therapy at Pacific Quest varies in its form and approach. Depending on student needs, therapists and students may sit together in a wooded area of camp or get their hands dirty in the soil. Therapists find creative ways to connect with students, producing a nurturing relationship conducive to reflection, awareness, communication and change. Therapists deepen the learning of day-to-day interactions by relating strengths and struggles to underlying issues occurring in environments outside of Pacific Quest. Therapists also teach basic life skills such as communication, problem solving and expression skills.

Pacific Quest clinicians come from diverse backgrounds, both in education and work experience. We draw on many approaches to therapy, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solutions-oriented, object relations, humanistic, and more. Specific interventions vary depending on the students’ individual needs. We value collaboration as a clinical team. Through weekly clinical meetings, we assess student and group needs and develop strategies for catalyzing therapeutic growth.

Our rolling enrollment allows the opportunity for newer students to be with students who have already worked through initial phases of denial and opposition. Mentoring, and being mentored is part of our positive peer culture.