Experiential Therapeutic Services (ETS)
Where healing happens through action, connection, and experience.
Many of the youth we support have experienced complex trauma that can leave them feeling isolated, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and the world around them. For some, traditional talk therapy can feel overwhelming or out of reach.
ETS at Youth Homes meets clients where they are through movement, creativity, shared experiences, and real-life connection. As our youth engage with peers, explore new places, and discover new possibilities for their futures, they begin to heal and grow in truly meaningful ways. These experiences help them process emotions, reduce anxiety, build social skills, and develop healthy coping strategies - while offering something equally powerful: a renewed sense of hope, belonging, and belief in a future that holds more than what they’ve known so far.
Our Approach
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Art Therapy
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Cooking Workshops
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Ecotherapy
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Equine Therapy
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Life Skills Workshops
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Mindfulness Practices
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Physical Activity
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World Discovery
Ecotherapy
Where nature is a co-therapist.
Eco-therapy intentionally connects our clients to nature and movement to improve their mental, emotional, and physical health. It includes different strategies, all based on the idea that humans are naturally meant to thrive outdoors. Through activities like hiking, outdoor adventures in local nature, and guided reflection, youth gain confidence, expand their comfort zones, and build connections beyond traditional clinical environments.
How your generosity makes healing happen…
“Since my client started attending ecotherapy activities, I’ve noticed improvements in her mood, energy, and willingness to step out of her comfort zone and manage her social anxiety symptoms.”
- Sarah Kaminsky, Advanced Practicum Trainee/Community-Based Clinician
“My client joined the hiking club today and talked about how nice it was to walk with a friendly group; it was a healing experience. The farthest she has ever been from home is San Francisco, and she is eagerly looking forward to the more distant hikes that are coming up so that she can “see the world”, including the Marin Headlands, China Camp and Muir Woods ”
- Gabe Kaplan, Community-Based Clinician