wilderness_experience_experience_positive_decision      "Twenty years ago a therapist built a relationship with me.  That therapist introduced me to nature and quality, caring individuals who helped guide me through a wilderness experience.  Those relationships and that wilderness experience continue to influence positive decisions in my life.  That is what we do best at Three Rivers Montana - build relationships, utilize nature as a classroom, and influence positive decisions in life."
                         - Staff Member
                           
Three Rivers Montana


      “I learned so much at Three Rivers, lessons about nature, survival skills, communication skills, but the most important lessons I learned were about myself. I learned to confront my feelings and try to understand them. I learned what my strengths were and how to rely on them and use them in positive ways. I learned where I was weak and what I needed to work hard on. I learned that I am a good part of a team and that I can rely and trust other people. I learned to let go of little things and live more. I learned that the most important relationship in my life is the one I have with myself.”
                         Student from Washington

      “Fascinating, incredible process- for us and for our son. I think every American teen should have a wilderness experience; it should be required for high school graduation. This taught our son more than any classroom he’s ever endured.”
                         Mother from Oklahoma

      “In my time at Three Rivers I have learned many lessons that have helped shape me into a new person, a good person…..These are: live in the moment, put effort into all aspects of life, stay calm and life will be cam (for the most part), and the importance of family.”
                         Student from New York

      “We will never forget that in the blackest pit of our despair, you wonderful people were there to help us, to hold the ladder for us to begin our climb back.”
                         Oregon Father

      “I was so backed up into my coping skills, such as my addiction to alcohol and other mood-altering drugs, shutting down, isolating, arrogance, an eating disorder, and various other techniques of pushing others away, that I did not even understand what it meant to feel anymore…..I feel much more in touch with myself, and with others.”
                         Student from New York

      “The gain in self-esteem and confidence that I got while I was at Three Rivers is the change I’m most proud of.”
                         Student from Montana

      “Three Rivers struck me as a highly professional organization. All the counselors were warm, caring and great listeners. I felt my son was safe and valued by the staff. Their genuine belief that our family could heal was empowering.”
                         Rhode Island Mother

      “My experience at Three Rivers was an unforgettable one and I will use every thing I have learned from being there in my life as it goes on. The most important thing I have learned is how much my family loves me and cares about me, all they have ever wanted is me to be happy and succeed in life. They gave me the second chance I needed, and I will never forget their great decision to send me to Three Rivers.”
                         Student from California

      "Three Rivers excelled in making me feel comfortable that I chose the right place and program to send my son.  The staff is extremely helpful and communicative and kept me informed of my son's progress every step of the way.  Don't lose that friendly family feeling as it helped me remain positive and settled that my son was in good hands."
                         Father from California

      “I truly do think that without Three Rivers I would have died. There was no way that I could go on without help……Three Rivers gave me the tools and support to get back on track.”
                         Student from Montana

      “My whole experience at Three Rivers had its ups and downs but in the end it prepared me for what will happen in the future and how to overcome my problems. It brought me peace spiritually and brought me in touch with nature. I found my inner peace and learned never to loose touch with it again. Now I look at my future and all the great new possibilities it will have for me with an open mind. I am ready for my new beginning and my new journey.”
                         Student from Texas

      “The parent seminar was the most incredible experience I have ever been through.”
                         Mother from Montana

      “My relationship with my family and friends has never been better, especially with my parents. We are talking to each other, interacting as a family, and actually enjoying it.”
                         Student from Michigan

      “I worked a lot of things out with my parents while in wilderness like all the problems I had, for example substance abuse, disrespect towards authority and my parents. I also never went to school. And on the plus side I learned a lot in wilderness I mean not only academics but things about life and the big picture of everything. I am thankful for my experience at three rivers.”
                         Student from California

      "This is the first time we've seen our son smile in a year!"
                         Mother from Utah

      “The most important things I learned in my time in the wilderness were to just calm down and think things through when I feel overwhelmed or frustrated. By slowing down and thinking things through, I am able to make smarter and better decisions.”
                         Student from California

      “I am very thankful for getting a second chance to make my life better. Without Three Rivers I would still be doing drugs and I wouldn’t have realized things that I did realize in wilderness. I had a great opportunity to change my life for the better, and I did. I won’t forget what wilderness did for me.”
                         Student from Minnesota

      “Staff is wonderful, supportive, amazing. Would recommend program to everyone. Program is well priced- good value.”
                         Mother from Illinois

      “I appreciate the love my family has given me and the effort they’ve put into making my life better for myself….I’m very proud for what I’ve had to accomplish, but I am more proud of what I will accomplish.”
                         Student from California