When you picture a therapy session, what is the first thought that comes to mind? Maybe the flickering lights… maybe the white-haired, soft-spoken man asking you about your feelings… maybe the smell of a scented candle. You’re probably not thinking about running around lifting weights, right? What if you could achieve everything you wanted, and perhaps more, than your typical sedintary therapy session with something called Active Therapy?
Let’s be clear, we are not downplaying the importance of an office-setting therapy session. If you are struggling, please seek out the counseling services that you need. All we are suggesting is that there may be a more active and engaging vehicle to address the mental health struggles you face, and you might even have a little fun along the way.
At Saltwater, Active Therapy means engaging in real-world, applicable experience in which you can apply the lessons learned to your everyday life. We don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk. We aren’t going to tell you how to handle life’s problems, we are going to show you. Through constant challenge, and with the support of your Saltwater family, you can expand your limits of what you believe is possible. Let’s check out an example.
At the Morris Psychological Group, Josh Glawe has embraced the concept of Active Therapy with his clients. Josh will meet with his patients each month in an outdoor, out-of-the-office setting; whether that is rock-climbing, rope swinging, and hiking, Josh has found tremendous value in getting his guys and gals up and moving. His goal: to bridge the gap between a clinical setting and the real world. Many of his clients have fear of physical activity. They are afraid to challenge themselves in a new way, and many of their lives have been consumed by this fear. Instead of talking about it, Josh walks them through a series of challenges to break through that fear, and ultimately come out on the other side stronger and more confident.
Josh reports a large percentage of his clients are afraid of public speaking. So what does he do? Does he talk about how to speak publicly? Nope. He motivates each member to get up in front of the group and speak their heart out, as their network of support looks on with great enthusiasm and support.
It can sound a bit intimidating, sure. But we encourage you to look back on your own life and find a similarity. Was there ever a moment you were afraid, or intimidated, to take on a new challenge? Taking a test? Asking the girl/guy out on a date? Starting a new job? Moving on from a dysfunctional relationship? Did you eventually walk through that fear, realize it wasn’t that bad, and come out on the other side with more confidence?
Believe it or not, in that moment you experienced an aspect of Active Therapy. But here’s the best part: Going forward, you don’t have to take that step alone. We are here to help you in whatever challenge life has in store for you, and provide you with practical experience to help you along the way.
So, are you afraid of a physical challenge? Are you afraid to take that first step to a healthier lifestyle? Are you afraid of what others might think of you? Are you afraid that you won’t be the strongest guy/gal in the room? We got you.
Take that first step into Saltwater, and you might be surprised to see what you are capable of achieving!