Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to climb?
No. Our introductory Mt. Baker trip is designed for people who are new to mountaineering. You'll learn the necessary skills during the trip. You do need to arrive physically prepared for several long days in the mountains.
Is this therapy?
No.
The trips are not psychotherapy and are not a substitute for mental-health treatment. The difference is that your guide also happens to have a professional background in psychology, and the trips intentionally leave room for meaningful conversation.
What if I don't want to talk about personal things?
That's completely fine.
You don't have to.
Some people will have deeper conversations. Some people will mostly talk about climbing, skiing, work, food, dogs, or whatever comes up. There's no expectation that you share anything personal.
What does a typical day look like?
Mountain days start early. We'll travel together, practice mountaineering skills, take breaks, eat, climb, and spend time together in camp. Depending on conditions and the objective, some days will be long and physically demanding. There will also be plenty of quiet time.
Who will I be climbing with?
Either 1:1 on a private trip, or we keep groups small so that everyone gets good instruction and has a chance to get to know the other people on the trip.
What gear do I need?
You'll need your personal clothing and items, footwear, sleeping bag, food, and some personal equipment (including ice axe, crampons, hemet, etc.). We provide the technical group equipment required for the climb.
You'll receive a complete packing list after registration, and we're happy to help you figure out what to rent or buy.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The mountains make the final decision. If conditions make the planned objective unsafe, we'll modify the itinerary or choose an appropriate alternative. Safety always comes before the summit.
Can I book a private climb?
Yes. Private Mt. Baker trips are available for individuals who want a more customized experience.
Logistics & Integrity
Registration & Screening
To maintain group safety and the depth of the container, all participants undergo a screening after deposit. This ensures the physical and psychological terrain of the trip aligns with your growth goals.
Tuition & Payments
Expedition tuition includes all technical gear (ropes, first aid, stoves), permits, and guiding. Full payment is due 45 days prior to departure. We offer structured payment plans for those committed to the work.
Cancellation & Refunds
Deposits are non-refundable to cover administrative and logistical costs. Cancellations made more than 60 days before the trip receive a full tuition refund (minus deposit), allowing us to offer the opening to men on our waitlist.
Expedition Insights
Clarity for the climb ahead. Understanding how we integrate technical terrain with internal terrain for growth-oriented moments.
How is this different other conversations?
In our home environments we talk. In the mountains, we live it. We use the physical environment to mirror internal challenges, allowing for meaningful processing and authentic connection that conversations back home don't often allow.
Do I need previous mountaineering experience?
No. We offer various difficulty levels, from intro backpacking to technical peaks. While a medium to high physical health is required, the 'climb' is as much about mental endurance and teamwork as it is about elevation gain.
What does “growth-oriented” mean for these trips?
It means we don't just survive the elements; we use them. Every technical skill learned and every peak reached serves as a metaphor for overcoming the obstacles in your professional and personal life.
What is the guides role during the expedition?
Our guides have backgrounds as therapists or social workers, but they aren't therapists on our trips. They facilitate collective conversation when appropriate, one-on-one “trail talk,” and help navigate the psychological peaks and valleys that naturally arise during high-consequence activity.