Surfing for Better Mental Health

Free, evidence-based surf therapy programs supporting communities across Australia.

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As a not-for-profit, our mission is to improve mental health, build resilience and promote social connection through nature-based therapies.

Waves of Wellness (WOW) is a mental health surf therapy not-for-profit transforming lives through our free, innovative 8-week surf therapy program that supports people at every stage of their mental health journey. We believe mental health care goes beyond crisis support; it’s about creating healthy, empowering outlets for healing and connection.

Our vision is to see evidence-based nature therapy recognised as an effective, complementary treatment for mental health and wellbeing across Australia.

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What is Surf Therapy?

Surf therapy is an innovative approach to mental health support that combines group-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with the therapeutic benefits of the outdoors. This unique method delivers intentional, inclusive, and evidence-based interventions, promoting psychological, physical, and social well-being through the transformative power of surfing and nature.

Why do we do it?

We are deeply committed to tackling the mental health crisis affecting our communities. We believe everyone deserves access to effective and compassionate support. Our mission is to provide free and accessible alternative therapy programs across Australia, empowering individuals to build resilience and reconnect with their communities. By delivering scalable, evidence-based interventions, we aim to ease the burden on the overwhelmed mental health system and prevent issues from escalating. We know traditional care doesn’t suit everyone, so we’re dedicated to offering innovative, inclusive solutions that meet diverse needs and create a brighter, healthier future for all.

Our 8-Week Surf
Therapy Program

Our free, 8-week Mental Health Surf Therapy Program is designed for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Our program is offered across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia. Each week features a different theme, such as stress management and building healthy relationships, all while connecting with nature and experiencing the therapeutic benefits of the ocean.

Led by compassionate mental health facilitators and skilled surf instructors, the sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental space for learning and growth.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop valuable surfing skills, forge meaningful connections, and enhance overall well-being. Embrace the healing power of the sea and embark on a transformative journey toward a brighter, healthier future, discovering waves of positive change within yourself.

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Our Impact

  • "Thank you for sharing such a special space both in and out of the water for the past 8 weeks - it's honestly been life-changing for me.  Nick, thank you for being an incredible and thoughtful host/facilitator of this program. It has been a safe space to share, grow, reflect and be challenged. Surfing has helped me to access a part of myself I thought was long gone, and seeing each of your smiling faces after our first session had such an impact on how I've been able to access joy, and see and accept myself in this world". 

    Female Participant, URBNSURF Melbourne

  • "The blending of the physical and, in so many ways, spiritual aspects of surfing with the thought-provoking and positive discussions was such a good way to work on mental and physical wellness. An absolutely brilliant experience that I have found enormously beneficial. Coming from a work environment (not just Defence) in which burnout and anxiety are profound negatives for so many, the strategies found in the discussions and the healing power of Vitamin Sea were extremely useful, and I have taken a lot away from the programme. I will be waxing (no, not a bad surf pun, though it could be) lyrical about the program to my workmates".

    Male Participant, Sunshine Coast

  • “I had such a wonderful time and it was a truly transformative experience. It was empowering to talk about sensitive and vulnerable issues surrounding mental health. Sharing is not easy for me and I felt very safe and respected in our group. I began to see implicit stigma in my daily life and in my own thought patterns.”

    Clemence, 23 - WOW Program Volunteer

  • “I feel like the program has shown me I shouldn’t be scared, or let my fear get in the way of trying new things. I shouldn’t be afraid of going out and having a surf or going out and meeting people. It has definitely changed me, I’ve been feeling a lot better since the start of the program”.

    Justin, 20 - WOW Program Participant

  • “I was recently medically discharged after 24 years in the military and I needed something new to help set short term goals. I am so grateful that programs like this exists to help those who are genuinely in need without the bureaucracy that sometimes come from asking for help. For me having the option of a women’s group gave me the courage to sign up and was huge incentive to keep turning up each week for our chats on the sand.”

    Female Participant, Women’s Program

See WOW in Action

Ways to Support Us & Get Involved

  • Donate

    Your donations directly support our life-changing surf therapy programs, making mental health care accessible to those who need it most.

  • Fundraise

    Turn your passion into action by organising a fundraiser for WOW. Every effort helps us deliver life-changing mental health programs, from community events to personal challenges.

  • Volunteer

    Join our incredible team of volunteers and play a hands-on role in supporting mental health through surf therapy.

  • Partner With Us

    Partner with WOW to make a meaningful impact - Together, we can drive positive change, support mental health initiatives, and create a healthier future for communities.

Support WOW

Purchase a Program!

Invest in your community’s well-being by purchasing an 8-week surf therapy or nature-based program. These programs are designed to strengthen mental health, foster meaningful connections, and provide a unique opportunity for growth and resilience through the power of nature. Whether it’s to support a school, a local group, or a specific need within your community, this is a chance to make a lasting impact and bring people together.

Available across NSW, VIC, WA, and QLD, these programs are a powerful way to create positive change and support those who need it most.

Email info@foundationwow.org to purchase a program

Dive into The Wash Up

EirWaves x WOW: Supporting Mental Health
Every purchase from EirWaves helps make a difference, with $5 from every sale donated to Waves of Wellness. This partnership combines EirWaves' passion for surf and skate culture with WOW’s mission to improve mental health through surf therapy and Walk + Talk programs. Together, we’re creating a lifestyle that celebrates wellness, community, and the healing power of the ocean.

Visit EirWaves

Your Mental Health Matters

Waves of Wellness is not a crisis service, but we want to ensure you can access the right support.

If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of others, it's important to seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000).

Here are some support options available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

Lifeline 131 114
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800