NATSAP Celebrates 25th Anniversary in 2024! 
The Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Council (OBH Council) was formed in the summer of 1996 by representatives from five leading wilderness therapy programs. Their shared vision was to establish outdoor behavioral healthcare (OBH) as an effective, ethical, inclusive, and accessible treatment solution for individuals, families, and communities. Over the years, the OBH Council has led the way in advancing the field, focusing on innovative practices, evidence-based research, and meaningful collaboration.
In 1999, Dr. Keith Russell became the founding director and primary researcher of the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Research Cooperative, laying the groundwork for an enduring commitment to data-driven improvement. Building on this foundation, the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Center was established in 2015 within the College of Health and Human Services at the University of New Hampshire. Led by Dr. Michael Gass and Dr. Anita Tucker, the Center conducts independent research, explores best practices, and develops accreditation and risk management standards.
Although the OBH Center operates independently, the OBH Council supports its third-party research as a critical resource for informing and improving practices in the field. This partnership exemplifies the Council's mission to unite leading outdoor behavioral healthcare programs in advancing treatment efficacy, ethical standards, and innovation.
Milestones in Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare
The OBH Council has championed numerous initiatives to foster growth and learning in the field. The Outdoor Therapy Symposium, formerly the Wilderness Therapy Symposium, exemplifies this commitment. Originally founded by Naropa University, this event brings together field staff, therapists, and industry leaders to share knowledge and collaborate on advancing the field.
In 2013, the OBH Council partnered with the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) to refine AEE’s existing standards, creating the rigorous AEE-OBH Accreditation. This accreditation is now a requirement for all OBH Council member programs, ensuring consistency in quality and safety across the industry.
A New Chapter with NATSAP
As the field of outdoor behavioral healthcare evolves, the OBH Council is excited to join forces with the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP). With most OBH Council member programs already part of NATSAP, this collaboration streamlines efforts and enhances the ability to support member programs. By combining resources, expertise, and energy, the OBH Council and NATSAP aim to expand the reach and impact of outdoor behavioral healthcare, supporting more programs that deliver transformative care in natural settings.
This partnership aligns seamlessly with NATSAP’s mission to promote ethical and effective therapeutic programs. Together, we can further both organizations' shared commitment to improving youth and family services through innovative care, rigorous standards, and a dedication to excellence.
The OBH Council remains steadfast in its mission to support member programs and deliver high-quality treatment to individuals and families in need. By uniting with NATSAP, we look forward to amplifying this mission and shaping the future of outdoor behavioral healthcare.