From Court to Confidence:

A Teen’s Transformation

Introduction

Meet Liam, a 13-year-old boy from Geelong who faced significant emotional challenges.

Struggling with panic attacks, low self-worth, and difficulties attending school, Liam felt overwhelmed and uncertain about his future.

This is the story of how Shake Counselling empowered him to regulate his emotions, build confidence, and rediscover his passion for basketball.

Background

Liam loved basketball and dreamed of playing at a higher level. However, his emotional struggles were holding him back:

•Emotional Dysregulation: Frequent panic attacks and difficulty managing emotions.

•School Avoidance: Challenges attending school due to anxiety.

•Low Self-Worth: Negative self-perception affecting his daily life.

Goals

Together with Liam, we set out to:

1. Increase Distress Tolerance: Teach Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills to help him manage intense emotions.

2. Discover Personal Goals: Explore what Liam wanted to achieve through counselling and in life.

3. Enhance Self-Confidence: Use his love for basketball as a tool for growth.

Our Approach

Over three months, Liam engaged in weekly sessions that combined therapy with physical activity:

Building Rapport:

•Initial Focus: Establishing trust through shared interests and light-hearted conversations.

•Activities: 20-minute walks around the Barwon River to create a relaxed environment.

Integrating DBT Skills:

•Skill Development: Introducing DBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques during sessions.

•Application: Practicing skills in real-life scenarios, particularly through basketball.

Basketball as Therapy:

•Phase One: Playing basketball to build rapport and release endorphins.

•Phase Two: Incorporating DBT skills during the game to simulate moments of distress.

•Challenge: Playing one-on-one games without “going easy” to help Liam practice emotion regulation under pressure.

Outcomes

Improved Emotional Regulation:

•Liam learned to use breathing techniques and grounding exercises during stressful moments.

•He applied these skills during basketball games and reported feeling more in control.

Enhanced Performance:

•By regulating his emotions, Liam played more efficiently and enjoyed the game more.

•He experienced fewer conflicts with teammates.

Achieving Goals:

•Liam successfully used his new skills during his basketball grand final, contributing to his team’s victory.

•He expressed pride in his ability to manage stress during important moments.

Conclusion

Practicing therapeutic skills in real-life situations proved transformative for Liam.

By integrating his passion for basketball with DBT techniques, he not only improved his emotional regulation but also boosted his confidence and enjoyment of the sport.

Key Takeaways

•Active Application: Real-world practice of skills enhances learning and effectiveness.

•Personalisation: Tailoring therapy to individual interests increases engagement.

•Supportive Relationships: Building strong rapport fosters trust and openness.

Could Shake Counselling Help Your Teen?

If your child is struggling with emotional challenges, we’re here to support you. At Shake Counselling, we specialise in integrating therapy with activities that resonate with young people.

•Learn More: Explore our Body-Based Therapy services.

•Contact Us: Schedule a chat to discuss how we can help your teen thrive.