Healing in Nature at Oregon’s Rehabs

Experiential Treatment

Most luxury rehabs in Oregon offer some form of experiential treatment, or learning by doing. This hands-on approach can be helpful for those who need a shift in their perspective, or are struggling to open up. According to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, which has treatment center locations in Newburg and Beaverton, Oregon: “For those who have trouble expressing deep emotions or talking about painful times in their lives, experiential therapy can be a game-changer.”⁵

In Oregon, experiential treatment often embraces the arts and culture of the region, as well as taking advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings. SLO Recovery Center offers hiking and other outdoor activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and fishing. They also take advantage of their urban locale, with social outings to nearby museums, theatres, and sporting events. These outings teach patients how to reframe their social lives without relying on substances. Additionally, SLO Recovery Center offers music therapy programs and community service work, where patients volunteer their time at homeless shelters and soup kitchens.

Skyline Recovery in Bend, Oregon builds “Wilderness Experiential Therapy” into their treatment model. As their website states: “Regular therapeutic work occurs in the wilderness where nature takes the place of words and healing occurs by doing and being rather than talking and processing.” Participants are encouraged to process their feelings and experiences by taking on challenges in the wilderness—all under the guidance of certified counselors and support staff. These wilderness excursions take advantage of scientific research, which suggests that spending time in nature reduces rumination, and shift neural pathways associated with mental illness.⁶

From Ski Slopes to Art Museums: Activities and Attractions in the Beaver State

If you choose to start your healing journey in Oregon, there are many attractions that you might enjoy as part of your treatment program.

Portland, Oregon is home to abundant parks and gardens, including the world-famous Rose Garden, which is the reason why Portland is often called the “City of Roses.” There’s also the Japanese Garden in Washington Park, which offers a serene place to practice mindfulness exercises and enjoy quiet time in nature. Cultural attractions include the Portland Art Museum, the Northwest Film Center, and several theatres.

In more rural parts of the state, excursions will likely include natural landmarks. Mount Saint Helens, the famous volcano that erupted in 1980, is a popular destination for those who enjoy history, hiking, and even exploring lava tubes and caves. Other sites include Crater Lake, one of Oregon’s seven wonders, the Columbia River Gorge, and Multnomah Falls, a gorgeous waterfall just outside Portland that’s nearly 600 feet tall.

Though Oregon is often known for its hiking and camping, it’s also a ski destination. Mount Hood and Mount Bachelor are both internationally recognized ski resorts, for those who enjoy winter recreation. Additionally, Oregon has dozens of healing hot springs, many of which have been operational since the early 1900s. Soaking in these hot springs can relax the body and facilitate healing.

Traveling to Oregon for Treatment

Oregon is a West Coast hub, and as such is easily accessible by plane. Portland International Airport (PDX) is the largest airport, located near downtown Portland. Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford also has many commercial flights daily, and serves the central and eastern parts of the state. Additionally, there are small commercial airports scattered throughout the state, including one in Eugene.

When traveling to a rehab center, you should make plans to ensure your safe arrival. Many rehab centers offer airport pickup and car services, which can be coordinated with the admissions office. Luxury treatment centers are also usually happy to connect you with a sober coach or companion who can travel with you from your destination. If you live nearby, you might also consider having a friend or family member drive you to the facility, or travel with you on a plane or train.

Oregon offers both urban and remote treatment options, and it’s important to choose the environment that will best suit your needs. If you’re looking to heal in a new city, Portland offers several rehab facilities that can support your goals. If you’d like to be closer to nature, Seaside or Bend might be more appealing. Regardless of the location you choose, most treatment centers in Oregon are within walking or driving distance from town, and close to awe-inspiring natural beauty. In fact, even at urban rehabs in Portland, greenery is abundant. In Oregon, you get the best of both worlds—making it an ideal location for people seeking a peaceful place to heal.

Find Peace in the Pacific Northwest

Oregon’s peaceful forests and rocky beaches offer a scenic backdrop for healing the mind, body, and spirit. The gentle rain that showers the western part of the state may not be your ideal year-round climate, but it can be cleansing as you move away from old patterns, and toward a new, sober life. Beyond its natural beauty, Oregon offers a culture of acceptance, compassion, and trauma-informed care that facilitates recovery. You can be anyone in Oregon, and that open-minded culture will give you the space to reflect on who you really are—and who you want to become.

Breaking free of old, destructive habits is a huge challenge. But travel gives you the opportunity to get some space from ingrained patterns. In Oregon, you can build new communities, foster new relationships, and receive top-of-the-line support with a focus on holistic healing and outdoor exploration. If you’re ready to make changes in your life, you may just find the support you need in Oregon.

To learn more about treatment opportunities, see our collection of luxury rehabs in Oregon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Luxury Rehabs