Daniel Rothman
Senior Field Guide
Joined Open Sky: September 2010
In Wilderness Therapy since: 2010
Interview with Daniel
October 2010
Q. If you were able to meet anyone (living or dead), who would it be and why?
I would want to meet John Muir. His work to develop wilderness areas and his efforts in preservation are legendary. John's ideas of being present in nature and finding spirituality in nature resonate with me. I would go on a backpacking trip with him through the Sierras to hear him retell his stories. "We are now in the mountains and they are in us, kindling enthusiasm, making every nerve quiver, filling every pore and cell of us." "Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean. "
Q. What are a few of the defining moments in your life and why?
One defining moment was realizing the importance of the outdoors in my life. It began with summer backpacks into the Sierras with my father. Later, I found myself returning to the outdoors season after season. The outdoors became my both my sanctuary and a place to adventure with friends. Learning to climb and ski became extensions of this inescapable pull to the outdoors. Eventually, I found my passion introducing others to the outdoors and I've been following it ever since.
Q. Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?
My father is my greatest inspiration. He taught me so much of what I value today. He first took me backpacking in the Sierras when I was young. He taught me how to ride a bike-- a skill I greatly value today. Also, he was the first person to put a camera in my hands. Photography has since become one of my greatest loves. Finally, he continues to support me in my passion in the outdoors.
Q. What are your unique gifts and/or experiences that help our students?
My background and experience combines many of the skills necessary for this work. I love Ashtanga yoga and Zazen meditation. I founded yoga and meditation clinics at the school I attended. Also, I've worked for a variety of outdoor schools. Finally, I did my undergraduate in psychology and volunteered at a sub-acute psychiatric crisis center. I hope to combine these skills and experience to create positive outcomes for Open Sky clients.
Q. Why do you work in wilderness therapy?
I want to work in wilderness therapy because it represent a synthesis of my passions, skills and experience so far. I love yoga, meditation, backpacking and I have a background in psychology. I see Open Sky as a way to combine all these aspects of my life.
Q. Why do you think wilderness therapy works?
I think wilderness therapy works because it provides a combination of grounding to the students and a safe environment. Grounding comes from the natural consequences of the environment (e.g. if it rains, you can choose to put a jacket on). I think this process allows students to empower themselves with the decisions they choose to make. The other component is a safe physical and emotional environment for the students grow in.
Q. What do you think Open Sky students need?
I think Open Sky students need structure and boundaries. For example, having structure gives student predictability. When students know what needs to happen, then they have opportunities to succeed. Also, having boundaries is essential to create emotional and physical safety for students. Finally, I think students ultimately need a friend.
Q. What do you like to do for fun when you aren’t working in the field?
So far, I've been exploring the trail running around Durango. It's great being so close to the San Juans. Also, I love climbing and I'm excited to be in Colorado to explore the rock and alpine climbing. Finally, I'm looking forward to my first ski season in Colorado.
Q. Anything else you want to tell us about yourself?
I'm excited to work for Open Sky.
Professional Experience
Lewis & Clark College Outdoors
Trip Leader
National Outdoor Leadership School
Climbing & Backpacking Instructor
Outward Bound - Midpines
Climbing, Backpacking & Mountaineering Instructor
Education
BA, Psychology
Lewis & Clark College, Portland, Oregon
Wilderness EMT; National and Oregon Registered EMT-Basic
CPR/AED for Professional Rescuer
