Surf Therapy for Young People Facing Challenges
Community-backed surf therapy across Geelong, the Surf Coast & Peninsula.
Mental health challenges, disability, and isolation can leave young people feeling completely disconnected.
Navigating these challenges is hard work, and traditional clinical environments don't work for everyone.
We move the support outside. By pairing each young person 1-on-1 with a trained local mentor, we create a safe, low-pressure space on the beach. Together, they take on the ocean, build real skills, and gain the confidence to navigate life on and off the sand.
Learn more about how Ocean Mind works here
Explore Our Programs
At Ocean Mind, we offer free community programs starting with our 6-Week Swell Program, an introduction to surf therapy that leads to ongoing support through our regular Surf Club sessions. This allows participants to build confidence, connections, and skills over the long term.
We also provide tailored 1:1 and group sessions for individuals with NDIS funding, ensuring personalized support to meet their unique needs and goals.
Additionally, our school programs offer flexible options designed to promote mental and physical wellbeing for students through the power of surf therapy. To learn more, follow the links below.
The Feedback
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Ocen Mind allowed me time - first in a very long time - to sit and be for two hours wacthing my boy. Allowed for a clearer headspace, to reflect and share the joy he bought home. This program has definetly increased our connectedness with each other and our love of the beach.
Guardian
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For me, seeing Sarah grow in confidence and overcome her anxieties was inspiring and rewarding. It strengthened my relationship with her because I got to witness her determination and progress firsthand. The experience allowed me to better understand her challenges and strengths, which helped me support her more effectively.
Guardian
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I didn’t know I could surf and it makes me feel good about myself that I can surf
Participant
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I loved the part when I kept on smiling it makes me more confident and also loved how everyone kept going and never gave up
Participant
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It was a positive experience to talk about every Sunday, something we could laugh, smile and share. I am going to learn to surf so we can have something to do together
Guardian
Our Impact Since 2016
As a volunteer, you'll work with young people in our surf therapy programs on the Surf Coast and Mornington Peninsula, supporting them in and out of the water to build confidence and life skills.
Join our diverse team of 160+ volunteers, aged 16 to 65, and enjoy the benefits of community, meeting like-minded people, attending events, and staying active.
Annual Reports
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20-21 Annual Report
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21-22 Annual Report
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22-23 Annual Report
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23-24 Annual Report
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24-25 Annual Report
Stay up to date with news, stories and impact from Ocean Mind
We keep our communication spaced out and relevant because we believe inboxes deserve to feel relaxed too.