Jolyn Mitchell  | Academic Program Manager | Maple Lake Academy | Learn More                   

Sandy stood on the edge of the blanket as the task was explained.  She was worried that her divorced parents would not be able to work together as a team. As the task began, it was awkward for them, but they soon realized, it could not be done unless they physically touched each other for support.  With encouragement from the therapist, the family was able to complete the task successfully. Later, Sandy processed how having the family work together helped her feel supported and encouraged and helped on her healing journey.

Maple Lake Academy is a program that not only supports students on the autism spectrum but supports the entire family.  For the last 18 years, families have visited our campus to engage in supportive play.  As part of our program, Recreational Therapy is designed to help people with specific mental health challenges to improve skills and overall wellness benefiting people of all ages. RT helps promote autonomy, competency, and inclusion. 

Framed by the beautiful mountains in Utah, Maple Lake Academy invites parents to campus to experience activities such as hiking, rope courses, and fishing. “There is something about having the backdrop of these natural structures that support emotional wellness, and harmony.” states one Maple Lake employee. Being in nature activates all your senses. It promotes a oneness with the surroundings and our place in this world. This kinesthetic approach to therapy brings in sights, smells and sounds of the forest and fosters feelings of unity and peace. In addition, it reduces feelings of depression and anxiety and promotes social well-being. 

One of our therapists states, “I was watching one of our mother’s on the rope course and knowing her history of over-supporting her child, she had to use her son as a physical support to move across the ropes to the end of the course. This moment was later processed by the family and identified mom’s past relationship with her child and redirecting it in healthier ways allowing him more opportunities for independence and learning.” This exemplifies that for those who find talk therapy to be challenging, recreational therapy can bring out thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a different way. 

 In conclusion, the goal of Maple Lake Academy is to provide scaffolding that helps families move toward healthier and happier relationships. In the scenery of the majestic Wasatch mountains, our parent weekends are designed to create a space for our families to engage not only in physical activity but mental, emotional, and social activities. The process of this “play” has been transformational for many of the participants as they make connections and move forward on their healing journey.