Individual Surf therapy sessions

TAKE YOUR RECOVERY & Mental health TO THE NEXT LEVEL!

Surf therapy is where the healing power of the ocean meets personalized care in our one-on-one surf therapy sessions. At the heart of our practice is a commitment to holistic well-being, harnessing the transformative energy of the waves for individual healing journeys. Our therapists blend a deep passion for the ocean with a profound understanding of the therapeutic benefits it offers. We uniquely integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) into our surf therapy sessions, combining the proven efficacy of these traditional therapeutic techniques with the dynamic healing environment of the sea. Through tailored sessions, we guide individuals on a unique path to self-discovery, resilience, and inner balance. Our approach goes beyond traditional therapy, immersing participants in the dynamic rhythm of the sea to foster mental and emotional well-being. Discover the profound connection between mind, body, and ocean as we embark on a journey of self-discovery together. 

What TO EXPECT

Individual Surf Therapy offers a safe, supportive space to heal through the medicine of the ocean. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, healing from trauma, or simply looking to deepen your connection to self, this one-on-one session is designed to meet you exactly where you are.

Together, we move at your pace — honoring your story, your nervous system, and your readiness. Each session is a blend of surf coaching, mindfulness practices, and therapeutic dialogue, grounded in trauma-informed care and ocean-based healing.

  1. A pre-session phone consultation to set intentions

  2. Personalized surf instruction based on your experience level

  3. Trauma-informed therapeutic support throughout the session

  4. Breathwork, grounding, and ocean mindfulness practices

  5. All equipment provided (soft top surfboard, wetsuit if needed)

  6. Located in Los Angeles (Venice Beach, El Porto, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach), Orange County (Huntington Beach, Newport Beach) and San Diego

AT A GLANCE…

What to expect from an individual session

  • Open compassionate space to express what you are experiencing

  • Feedback, reflection and open ended questions to aid in self discovery

  • New skills to understand what is happening in your internal world through meditation, breath and movement

  • A blend of talk therapy, somatic experiencing and ocean healing

  • Slowing down, a time for rest and processing 

  • An approach that is catered directly to you

How Long?

  • Sessions are either (1hr) or (1.5hr) long depending on whether we will be surfing

Cost?

  • We have a sliding scale available to ensure access

Where?

  • El Porto, Manhattan Beach 

  • Topaz or Sapphire, South Redondo

  • South Bay

  • Venice Beach or Venice Beach Pier

  • Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Orange County

Meet Your Surf Therapy Team!

  • Sophie Pyne, LCSW

    SUPERVISOR & CO-FOUNDER

    Sophie began working in the behavioral and mental health field in 2014 after getting sober and graduating with her BA from University of Southern California. Since entering recovery, she has received her Masters in Social Work (MSW) and has held various positions in the mental health field, including case manager, group facilitator, primary therapist, clinical outreach, and most recently executive director of a national young adult mental health and substance use disorder treatment center.

    Sophie learned to surf during her recovery journey and found deep healing and transformation through a connection with the ocean, which she loves to share with others!

  • Michelle Cortrite, ACSW

    SURF THERAPY FACILITATOR

    Michelle is an Associate Clinical Social Worker from Santa Monica, CA. She has worked with children and families in the mental health and social welfare field for 8+ years. She is a swimming and surfing coach and has been helping to facilitate surf therapy groups for the past three years. In her free time, Michelle is an open-water swimmer, surfer, and overall lover of all things ocean. She believes passionately in water's ability to heal and connect us.

  • Air Kessler, ACSW

    SURF THERAPY FACILITATOR

    With an extensive background in educational and healthcare settings, Air has specialized in helping young adults manage complex trauma and gender identity issues. Air is a passionate advocate for a holistic approach to wellness, emphasizing mental and physical well-being in his practice. As an avid surfer, Air notes that he has found connection, confidence, and humility in the ocean and hopes to share this with those seeking healing.

  • Isabel Aguirre, ACSW

    Description goes here

  • Nathaniel Mills

    Description goes here

 FAQs

  • No prior surfing experience is necessary! For those who are new to surfing, we require the presence of one of our Waves of Recovery surf coaches during the initial sessions for safety reasons. The duration for which a surf coach will be present varies for each individual, ensuring a gradual and comfortable progression into the surf therapy experience.

  • Absolutely, it's a great point! If you're already an experienced surfer, you likely appreciate the therapeutic benefits of riding the waves on your own. However, our unique approach to surf therapy goes beyond the act of surfing itself. For those who are familiar with the sport, we take traditional talk therapy and bring it to the water. As fellow surfers, we understand the connection between the ocean and mental well-being. Why sit in an office when you can be catching waves and engaging in a transformative therapeutic experience?

  • Our therapists operate at several beaches in Los Angeles and Orange County. Your therapist will recommend a beach that aligns with your location and skill level for the optimal surf therapy experience. If you're an experienced surfer with a favorite spot, we're flexible and can arrange to meet you there! Our goal is to ensure that your surf therapy session takes place in a location that suits you best.

  • A typical session is 90 minutes. This can be adjusted to fit your needs.

  • No! We offer wetsuits and boards for your use. However, feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

  • Our sessions are uniquely crafted to cater to the individual needs of our clients, making each experience a bit different. Typically, sessions commence with a beachside check-in, incorporating grounding and mindfulness exercises. For those new to surfing, a significant portion of the session focuses on learning the fundamentals of surfing. If you're already familiar with surfing, the remainder of the session resembles a traditional therapy setting, albeit in the open air, riding waves as we engage in conversation and processing. The ocean becomes our therapeutic backdrop, offering valuable lessons about ourselves and the world around us. Together, we'll reflect and process whatever surfaces through the rhythm of the waves!

  • Sessions are $150 for a 90 minute session, however sliding scale and scholarships options are available. Please contact us to apply.

    Surf therapy may be reimbursed by some insurance providers.

    Superbills can also be provided.