About Company
Imagine a career where your passion for the outdoors meets your dedication to mental wellness. Career.zycto is a pioneering organization committed to connecting individuals with transformative therapeutic adventures. We champion innovative, experiential programs that leverage nature’s profound healing potential. For an Adventure Therapist, this means an unparalleled opportunity to blend clinical expertise with active, engaging interventions. You’ll join a passionate team focused on fostering resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth in stunning natural settings, making a tangible difference in clients’ lives while advancing your own professional journey within a supportive, forward-thinking environment.
Job Description
Career.zycto is seeking a dynamic and compassionate Seasonal Adventure Therapist to join our dedicated team in Rosemont, Montreal. This role offers a unique opportunity to facilitate therapeutic interventions through outdoor and experiential activities, guiding participants toward improved mental health, emotional regulation, and personal development. As a Seasonal Adventure Therapist, you will be instrumental in designing and leading group and individual sessions utilizing nature-based activities such as hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and wilderness expeditions, tailored to meet specific therapeutic goals.
This position requires a professional who is not only skilled in clinical therapeutic practices but also deeply passionate about the healing power of the outdoors. You will work with diverse populations, including youth and adults facing various mental health challenges, leveraging adventure as a metaphor for life’s challenges and successes. Our programs are built on principles of challenge by choice, self-efficacy, group cohesion, and nature connection. You will be responsible for creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where participants can explore their strengths, overcome obstacles, and develop coping strategies in real-time.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, and be able to integrate these effectively into an outdoor setting. You must be adept at risk management in outdoor environments, ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants while facilitating profound therapeutic experiences. This seasonal role provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing field, working with a team that values innovation, collaboration, and a holistic approach to well-being. If you are an empathetic, resilient, and adventurous therapist looking to make a significant impact outside the traditional clinical setting, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and facilitate engaging adventure therapy programs for individuals and groups, aligning with therapeutic goals.
- Conduct initial assessments and ongoing evaluations of participants' progress, adapting interventions as needed.
- Lead various outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, climbing, and wilderness skills, ensuring participant safety and engagement.
- Integrate clinical therapeutic techniques (e.g., CBT, DBT, mindfulness) into experiential activities.
- Manage risk effectively in outdoor settings, adhering to all safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Foster a positive, supportive, and inclusive group dynamic that encourages personal growth and self-discovery.
- Document participant progress, observations, and incidents in accordance with organizational standards and ethical guidelines.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive client care and program effectiveness.
- Maintain and inspect program equipment, ensuring all gear is in safe working condition.
- Provide crisis intervention and support as necessary, demonstrating sound judgment and compassion.
Required Skills
- Master's degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Recreation Therapy, or a related field.
- 1-2 years of direct experience in adventure therapy, wilderness therapy, or outdoor experiential education.
- Strong understanding of mental health conditions and therapeutic interventions.
- Proven ability to lead and manage groups in outdoor environments.
- Excellent risk management and decision-making skills in challenging situations.
- First Aid and CPR certification (Wilderness First Responder/EMT preferred).
- Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing environments and client needs.
- Proficiency in both English and French is highly valued for serving our diverse community.
Preferred Qualifications
- Relevant professional certifications (e.g., AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, Paddle Canada Instructor, ACCT Level 1 Challenge Course Practitioner).
- Experience working with diverse populations, including youth-at-risk or individuals with specific mental health diagnoses.
- Knowledge of local outdoor recreation areas and resources in Quebec.
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and experience driving passenger vans.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage for seasonal work.
- Opportunity to work in beautiful natural settings around Montreal and Quebec.
- Professional development and training opportunities in adventure therapy techniques.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- The chance to make a profound positive impact on individuals' lives.
- Access to high-quality outdoor gear and equipment.
- Flexible seasonal scheduling options.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and passion for adventure therapy. Please highlight your experience leading outdoor activities and working with diverse populations. Only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.
