Ep.41 Beyond the Therapy Office: Surf Therapy & Trauma Healing with Jess Ripley, LMFT

What if the ocean could become part of the healing process?

In this episode of the Bonded Podcast, Lizzie and Dr. Patty sit down with surf and trauma therapist Jess Ripley, LMFT, to explore the transformative power of nature-based healing and reconnecting with ourselves through the ocean. Jess shares her personal journey from recovery and recreation therapy to creating her own integrative approach to surf therapy blending mindfulness, trauma healing, play, embodiment, and the wisdom of nature. Whether you’re a surfer, nature lover, therapist, or someone longing to feel more alive and connected, this episode offers an inspiring look at healing through relationship — with ourselves, others, and the natural world.

This conversation dives into:

• How nature and the ocean can support trauma healing
• What surf therapy actually looks like in practice
• The role of mindfulness, play, and embodiment in healing
• Why healing outside the therapy office can be so powerful
• Corrective experiences through movement, challenge, and connection
• Ocean metaphors for life, timing, fear, trust, and resilience
• The ethical considerations of doing therapy outside the office
• The healing impact of awe, beauty, and feeling part of nature
• How surf therapy supports addiction recovery, PTSD, anxiety, and depression
• Reconnecting with nature as a path toward wholeness

If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend who surfs, works in mental health, or finds refuge out in the ocean!

Connect with Jess

🌊 Website: www.sealovehealing.com

🌊 Instagram @sealovehealing

🌊 Surf Therapy Training: For recreational therapists who want to work within their scope of competence outside the office, co-creating therapeutic spaces with nature. Learn more: www.sealovehealing.com/become-a-surf-therapist.html

Resources

Surf Therapy International: A global hub for surf therapy organizations, research, and resources. https://intlsurftherapy.org/

Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner. The book on awe that Lizzie and Dr. Patty reference in this episode — a beautiful companion read.