Profession: Therapeutical Adventure Facilitator – An interview with Catherine Provost

Little is known about the therapeutic adventure facilitator profession. We recently met Catherine Provost, member of the Foundation team since 2012, to discuss her passion for the outdoors and the unique experiences she has with people who are just as unique.

What does it take to become a therapeutic adventure facilitator?
I think one should have good listening skills and a great capacity for teamwork as we have to work in different contexts; one must have a great mastery of outdoors environments and of the various activities in which we participate. As for the Foundation, I would add that we must have a strong interest in the youth clientele.

What is the best aspect of your profession?
The balance between the office and the field. I like to organize projects from A to Z, go through all the steps leading to the conclusion that is the expedition. The close contact with young people is also a privilege. This beautiful youth is for me an inspiration!!

Are there any disadvantages?
I would say challenges! Each expedition and each group are different, which requires a high degree of adaptability and, of course, implies a slight amount of stress.

Would you like to share a special moment you experienced?
During the last expedition, the young participants took the initiative to organize a sharing circle on the very first day. Each of them shared the stages they went through from the moment they learned they had cancer, their remission and their vision of the future ahead of them. It was the kind of moment that cannot be planned and that touched us deeply.

The moment something clicked and you told yourself that this was what you wanted to do?
When I was younger, I worked for a summer camp. I thought it was so nice to get the kids out of the city, have them to reconnect with nature and share with them my passion. I had to find a way to make it my job!