Portugal

I represent Portugal in this field. Until 2010, I was an active member of the Adventure Therapy group at the AEE (Association for Experiential Education, USA). My journey began in 1995 in the United States at Pressley Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness Camp. Around the same time in Portugal, I started leading adventure therapy camps for at-risk youth, integrating adventure-based methods with my background in clinical psychology.

My passion for adventure sports, psychology, and working with children and young people facing behavioral and adjustment challenges is what first drew me to this field. I was also inspired by witnessing the extraordinary therapeutic effects these approaches can have on people’s growth and transformation.

I encourage others in my region to get involved in this work for two key reasons: the benefits are tremendous—not only on an individual level but also socially; and the connection with nature acts as a powerful catalyst for the action and transformation people seek.

You can email Kátia at katia.almeida@beyondfear.pt