WHAT IS SURF THERAPY?

Surf Therapy Defined A method of intervention combining surf instructing/surfing and structured individual or group activities that promote psychological, physical and psychosocial well-being.
*Published in the Global Journal of Community Psychology Practice, and endorsed by International Surf Therapy Organization.

How is Surf Therapy Different from Surfing? It isn’t that much different, but its as different as the personalities that we reflect upon. Surf therapy is more-so a Vision and Mission to allow more access and visibility into Mental Health and the healing properties of nature. In this realm we honor the Ocean, but include all of the Earth’s elements and Human senses into the experience.

How do you become a Surf Therapist? The title “Surf Therapist” is a term commonly referred to describe a Surf Therapy provider, and does not require one to be a surf coach or licensed therapist. The process of holding a safe space in the ocean requires ocean competency, a personal surf or ocean regimen, and constant growth towards understanding best practices in the field. As this field is inclusive of gifts and talents from intersecting arenas, we find it entirely important to acknowledge that Surf Therapy is a personal endeavor that various agencies and professional realms define in their own capacities.

How does Hydro Theory train to provide surf therapy in programming? We focus on individual skill levels as practitioners, our own capacities and thresholds, and limitations. Once we align and acknowledge our strengths and challenges as a guide or mentor through the process of immersing into our weekly training and paddle-outs at the beach, we develop our unique leadership skills and work through our blind spots to provide the best service that we are able to. We delve into expressive arts therapies, collaborate with other agencies aligned in our work, community recreational camps and leaders, and researchers in the field to continue our growth potential.

How do I get more information on Surf Therapy and Research behind its proven efficacy? International Surf Therapy Organization is a non-profit organization leading global surf therapy research. For more information and links to current research, please click here: Int’l Surf Therapy Org.