The Interpreted Rock

By Stephen C. Schultz The smoke was swirling skyward and the unmistakable smell of burning cedar drifted in my direction. There was the happy fireside chatter that happens when groups of teens gather around the fire. This particular time of year was the beginning of summer. Families around the world recognized that summer was a great time for a family intervention. You see, these teens had a history of mild mental health concerns or behavioral problems that were beyond their parents ability to help in the home. Many struggled with depression or anxiety. Some were flunking school or falling into the trap of substance abuse. The first time I entered a group of teens attending RedCliff Ascent, I was surprised just how happy they were. I expected a bunch of mad, angry teenagers who were trying desperately to leave. Not so with this group. They consisted of a boy from Russia, one from Singapore, another from France and the rest from across the USA. I was amazed at what I saw. B...

By Stephen C. Schultz The sky was overcast, and there was a crisp chill in the air. The rooftops of the neighboring houses were covered in the unmistakable white, fluffy stuff so affectionately called snow. This would normally not be of any consequence at the foot of the 10,000-foot mountains. However, flowers were beginning to bloom, the grass was turning green, and we had already grown accustomed to warmer temperatures. Weather in this part of the country can be a roller coaster at best. As I stepped out of my car and into the wind, I made my way to the door of my office. I walked past the reception desk, where Andrea caught my eye and motioned me over. She mentioned that someone was on the phone seeking more information about our Wilderness Therapy Program and asked if I would be willing to speak with them. Andrea transferred the call to my cell phone, and I introduced myself. The caller, a woman from Arizona, mentioned that she had watched some videos about RedCliff Ascent on Yo...