As a Program Director of a Wilderness Therapy Program, I saw many significant changes in the students who came to us. The primitive living was really quite a shock for many of them, used to constant interactions on internet, phone, text, etc. A surprising number did not even know how to lace up a boot, and many were apparently allergic to water. By the end of several weeks, they had relaxed and much more open to looking at their part in their families problems. It was a remarkably consistent response. While therapists interacted with them on a case plan, my experience was that just being out there induced many positive changes.
There is some research that shows this as well. Look up OBHRC they have a list of research articles on wilderness therapy and adventure programs.