NEWS RELEASE

For Release: December 19, 2024

Contact: Maddy Schoap, Public Affairs Director, 301-986-8770, maddy@natsap.org

NATSAP Welcomes Outdoor Behavioral Health Council (OBHC) into Its Network

Bowie, MD— The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) is thrilled to announce the integration of the Outdoor Behavioral Health Council (OBHC) into its network. This incredible partnership represents a monumental step forward in raising the standards of care for youth and families across the therapeutic field.

The collaboration, led by Gil Hallows, OBHC Representative and Derek Daley, incoming NATSAP Board of Directors President, merges OBHC’s expertise in outdoor behavioral health with NATSAP’s comprehensive resources and steadfast commitment to excellence. Together, the organizations will set new benchmarks for collaboration and accountability within the industry.

As part of this integration, OBHC programs will join a community united by NATSAP’s rigorous accreditation and licensing requirements, ensuring the highest levels of safety, professionalism, and quality. The partnership reflects a shared belief that the alignment of resources and expertise will benefit not only both organizations but also the entire therapeutic field.

“OBHC, which was founded in 1996, has long focused on advancing outcomes research, best practices, and collaboration among wilderness therapy programs. Given the current challenges in the field, now is the right time to join forces with NATSAP. This partnership will enhance OBHC’s efforts with access to NATSAP’s resources and create new opportunities for both organizations,” said Gil Hallows, OBHC founding member and Executive Director of Legacy Treatment Centers.

Current NATSAP Board of Directors President, John Singleton, EdD, remarked, “This partnership with OBHC marks a significant step in elevating the standards of care in our field. By combining our expertise and resources, we’re strengthening both NATSAP and the industry, ensuring that our members continue to provide the highest level of support to youth and families.” 

The integration represents a transformative step forward for both organizations, amplifying their collective voice and ensuring continued growth and success for programs nationwide.

For more information, visit www.natsap.org.

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About the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP)

Founded in January 1999, NATSAP, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit membership organization, is a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Located throughout the U.S., NATSAP members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness therapy programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs. The Association is governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors comprised of representatives from its membership. NATSAP members are independently operated and owned; therefore, NATSAP does not provide placement services. All NATSAP member programs that treat children under 18 are overseen by state therapeutic licensure or accredited by major mental health bodies, and in some cases, both.