Experiential Therapy has been around since the 1970’s. It’s a term that can refer to engaging in physical activity while participating in the therapy. Paddle Boarding is just one of the experiential methods I use to meet clients’ needs within my practice.
BENEFITS:
Experiential Therapy offers several advantages:- People don’t exist in their own bubble and often the therapy office can seem like a very small glimpse in to an individual’s day to day mentality and challenges. Within the office we’re limited to the individual’s perspective of a situation. Their experience is processed through their own lens and then retold.
- By participating in activities in real time I’m able to observe a teens interactions with the environment and other people. I’m able to help guide and coach them through difficult challenges and internal struggles in the moment rather than after the fact.
- Experiential Therapy and Paddle Boarding specifically, perfectly lends itself to enhance the therapeutic process. Paddle boarding offers many benefits, both physically and mentally without distracting from the meaningful therapeutic work. Physically, the activity of paddle boarding out on the water can provide relief from anxiety and stress. Being connected with nature and exerting energy in productive ways are both helpful stress busters. Mentally, the activity provides opportunities to experience successes, identify personal obstacles, and develop improved self-esteem.
