Shake Counselling

Body Based Therapy: Revolutionising Teen Counselling

Equipping Teens with Emotional Regulation Skills

At Shake Counselling, we believe that traditional therapy settings can sometimes feel intimidating or uncomfortable for teens. That's why we've developed our signature approach: Body Based Therapy.

By incorporating physical activities like sports, exercise, and outdoor adventures into our therapy sessions, we create a unique and engaging environment that breaks down barriers and allows teens to open up and engage in the therapeutic process.

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What is Body Based Therapy?

Body Based Therapy is a revolutionary approach to counselling that combines traditional therapy techniques with physical activities. At Shake Counselling, we understand that teens may feel more comfortable and engaged when they’re active and doing something they enjoy.

By integrating activities into our sessions, we create a more relaxed, natural setting where teens feel safe to express themselves and work through their challenges.

Our body based therapy sessions might include:

  • Playing basketball or kicking a football
  • Going for a walk or a hike in nature
  • Engaging in exercises or workouts
  • Participating in art or music activities

 

Through these activities, we build rapport, establish trust, and create a strong therapeutic alliance that allows for deeper, more meaningful conversations and breakthroughs.

 

The Benefits of Body Based Therapy for Teens

  • Increased Engagement: When teens are participating in activities they enjoy, they’re more likely to be engaged and invested in the therapy process. This increased engagement leads to better outcomes and faster progress.

 

  • Reduced Stigma: Many teens may feel self-conscious or stigmatised by traditional therapy settings. By incorporating activities, we normalise the therapy experience and make it feel more approachable and accessible.

 

  • Improved Communication: Engaging in physical activities can help teens relax and open up more naturally. As they focus on the activity at hand, they may find it easier to share their thoughts and feelings, leading to improved communication and self-expression.

 

  • Greater Self-Awareness: As teens participate in activities, they have opportunities to observe their own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in real-time. This can lead to greater self-awareness and insight into their patterns and challenges.

 

  • Enhanced Skill-Building: Activity-based therapy allows teens to practice and develop important life skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and emotional regulation, in a hands-on, experiential way.

What to Expect in an Body Based Therapy Session

When you come to Shake Counselling for an activity-based therapy session, you can expect a welcoming, non-judgmental environment tailored to your unique needs and interests. 

Your therapist will work with you to identify activities that you enjoy and that align with your therapeutic goals.

During the session, you’ll engage in the chosen activity while simultaneously processing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with your therapist.

This integrated approach allows for a more organic, free-flowing conversation that can lead to deeper insights and breakthroughs.

Throughout the session, your therapist will guide you in exploring your values, setting goals, and developing practical skills to manage distress, regulate emotions, and communicate effectively.

They may incorporate specific therapeutic techniques, such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as appropriate.

Two boys practicing basketball moves on court with Shake Counselling logo

Is Body Based Therapy Right for You?

If you’re a teen who:

  • Feels uncomfortable or stuck in traditional talk therapy settings
  • Enjoys physical activities and hands-on learning experiences
  • Struggles to open up or express yourself verbally
  • Wants to develop practical life skills and coping strategies

 

Then body based therapy at Shake Counselling might be a great fit for you.

Our compassionate, experienced therapists are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where you can engage in activities you enjoy while working towards your mental health goals.

Getting Started with Activity-Based Therapy at Shake

if you’re ready to give activity-based therapy a go, we’re here for you! Our team at Shake is always down to chat, answer your questions, and help you get started.

Here’s how:

  1. Hit us up – call, email, or use the form on our website. Easy!
  2. We’ll match you with one of our awesome therapists for a quick intro chat.
  3. You and your therapist will pick some fun activities that vibe with what you want to work on.
  4. Then, it’s go time! Jump into your custom activity-based sessions, made just for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Activity-based therapy is a unique approach to counseling that blends traditional therapy techniques with physical activities like sports, exercise, and outdoor adventures. This creates a more engaging, comfortable environment for teens to open up and work through their challenges.

 

Activity-based counseling helps teens in many ways:

  • Makes therapy feel more natural and less intimidating
  • Encourages teens to open up and express themselves
  • Helps teens develop practical life skills and coping strategies
  • Boosts self-awareness and understanding of thoughts and emotions
  • Makes therapy more engaging and enjoyable

At Shake, we use a variety of activities in our therapy sessions, depending on each teen’s interests and goals. Some examples include:

  • Sports like basketball, football, or hiking
  • Exercise and fitness activities
  • Art and music projects
  • Outdoor adventures and nature walks

Yes! Research shows that incorporating physical activities into therapy can improve engagement, communication, and overall outcomes for teens. At Shake, we’ve seen firsthand how activity-based therapy helps teens make progress and develop important skills for managing their mental health.

Activity-based therapy might be a good fit if you:

  • Feel nervous or uncomfortable with traditional talk therapy
  • Enjoy physical activities and hands-on learning
  • Have trouble expressing yourself or opening up verbally
  • Want to learn practical skills to cope with stress and emotions

In an activity-based therapy session at Shake, you’ll work with your therapist to choose an activity that aligns with your goals and interests. During the session, you’ll engage in the activity while talking with your therapist about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s a relaxed, supportive environment where you can be yourself and work towards your goals.

 

Getting started with activity-based therapy at Shake is easy:

  1. Contact us by phone, email, or through our website.
  2. Schedule a chat with one of our friendly therapists.
  3. Work with your therapist to choose activities and set goals.
  4. Start your personalised activity-based therapy sessions!

 

We’re here to support you every step of the way. Reach out today to learn more and book your first session.

Contact Us
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Location

11 Newcastle St, Newtown VIC 3220

0422 868 258
Mon – Fri: 7:00am – 6:00pm
Sat: 7:00am – 2:00pm

About Us

We empower Geelong’s teens to navigate challenges, build strong relationships, and develop a positive sense of self.