Begin your LifeWays journey.

The LifeWays Institute is a recreational and therapeutic guiding company based out of Durango, CO. From local guided rock climbing, to wilderness expeditions, to outpatient therapy, the LifeWays Team provides unmatched access to outdoor experiences for teens, adults, and families.

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Book a climbing adventure today.

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Nature heals.

Our out-patient therapy program consists of Licensed Social Workers and Professional Counselors that provide holistic and individualized care for teens (12+), adults, and families.

Seeking Therapy

Our out-patient therapy program consists of Licensed Social Workers and Professional Counselors that provide holistic and individualized care for teens (12+), adults, and families.

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We believe that Nature Heals

About Us

Meet Our Team

Our mission is to connect people to themselves, their communities, and the earth as a means to accelerate growth and transformation.

Our vision is to be a business solution for the ecological and mental health crises of our present day.

Where Healing and
Nature Meet.

Join us as a client or a fellow therapist in rediscovering the wisdom of nature.

Seeking Therapy

If traditional therapy hasn’t felt right for you, LifeWays offers a different path. Our holistic, trauma-informed clinicians create personalized sessions that prioritize real connection and meaningful change. You’ll be supported by a team that understands how hard it can be to open up—and how powerful it can be when you do.

With opportunities to integrate outdoor experiences before and after wilderness programs, we help you turn insight into action and rediscover a sense of purpose and peace. Take the first step toward healing—schedule a free 20-minute consultation and see if LifeWays is the right fit for you.

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I'm A Therapist

Are you a mental health professional inspired to bring your practice into the wild? LifeWays partners with therapists to co-create transformative wilderness programs where clients—and practitioners—can reconnect with the essence of healing. From hiking through alpine peaks to sharing reflection circles under open skies, we handle the logistics so you can focus on guiding growth.

Our experienced team offers comprehensive planning, field support, and deep expertise at the intersection of wilderness and therapy. Together, we’ll design an unforgettable experience that nurtures connection, courage, and renewal—for you and those you serve.

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Kind words from
our clients.

Southwest Conservation Corps worked with LifeWays, and specifically Chris, to support mental health within our organization. Chris led trainings for our seasonal staff in the spring, built rapport, and created an amazing culture of support, feedback and wellness among our seasonal staff. Chris did a great job supporting our seasonal staff and youth through a few challenging mental health incidents that were beyond the scope of our program staff. A huge shoutout to Chris and LifeWays for providing professional, consistent, and relevant support to youth serving non-profits in the Four Corners!

- Jacob (SCC)

“The team at LifeWays is simply amazing. We asked for an outdoor lead clinic for six of us, and the team delivered, helping us become stronger and safer climbers. I would recommend lifeways for anyone trying to improve their safety and become better climbers.”

- Jameson B

“Lifeways held a lead climbing clinic for us, and we learned so much. Can’t speak highly enough of the team that helped us. The experience was so valuable in gaining confidence and safety skills for transitioning from gym climbing to outdoor climbing.”

- Margaret D

“Our Durango friend group worked with LifeWays to build us a custom climbing clinic to help us advance our outdoor climbing skills and safety. The entire team was incredible! They were generous with their time and knowledge sharing. We learned so much and gained confidence. We hope to do an annual clinic with LifeWays to continue advancing our skills. There’s no one else in Durango I’d trust!”

- Kristen B

“Lifeways led a climbing clinic for myself and 5 friends. Brian, Rowan, and Chris were our guides and they were fantastic. Knowledgable, patient, and a great resource for us who were wanting to get back into the swing of climbing, pun intended. If you’re looking for climbing guides around Durango who can tailor clinics to your skill level, this is the team for you. Will definitely be going back to develop my skills with them.”

- Jeremey S

“It was awesome learning to lead climb from this crew! They did a great job tailoring the training to my group’s skill level and work toward our climbing goals.”

- Jack D

Rock Climbing Adventures

At LifeWays, climbing is more than reaching the top—it’s about discovering your own strength along the way. Led by AMGA-certified guides, our Durango-based climbing experiences invite individuals, couples, and families to connect with the mountains through trust, skill, and adventure.

Guided Climbing

Experience the thrill of climbing in Durango’s stunning landscapes with LifeWays’ AMGA-certified guides. Perfect for first-timers, families, couples, or seasoned climbers looking for a new challenge

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Climbing Clinics

LifeWays Climbing Clinics go beyond the summit — they’re about building skill, confidence, and presence on the rock.

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Upcoming Wilderness Courses

Explore our seasonal course calendar on the Wilderness Courses page to find your next adventure. Looking for something unique? Our team can help design a custom experience for your group or family. Step outside, connect deeply, and discover what’s possible with LifeWays guides by your side.

We thrive from your referrals

Sending us a referal? Thanks we couldn't do this without you. Fill out the form here.

Referral Form

Begin your LifeWays journey.

Book a climbing adventure today.