ABOUT
Surf Therapy is a not for profit Community Interest Company. Formed in 2019 our mission is to provide ‘surf therapy’ for men suffering with depression, anxiety, stress and other mental health issues. We are proud to be working towards becoming a full member of the International Surf Therapy Organisation (ISTO).
We work closely with local communities, businesses, volunteers and surfers to help men in need experience the physical health benefits of surfing and also the calming and therapeutic effects of the ocean.
Our Members
Phil Owen
Phil Owen, the founder and a director of Surf Therapy CIC has been surfing since 1983. Phil is a qualified teacher, ISA qualified Surf and SUP coach, as well as a certified Blue Health Coach, EMDR practitioner and Substance Misuse counsellor. Phil is passionate about using surfing as a therapy to work with adults suffering from mental ill-health, as well as introducing people to the benefits of Blue Health and the healing power of the sea and the ocean.
Jamie Andrews
Jamie is the owner of Progress Surf School based on Gower, South Wales. Jamie has surfed all around the world and is an expert surf coach. Jamie and Progress Surf School have supported the surf therapy programme since the start.
Jack Bessant
Jack Bessant is the bass player of the multi award winning rock band Reef. A keen surfer, Jack is an ambassador and supporter of the surf therapy programme.
Gary Stringer
Gary is the lead singer of the rock band Reef. A keen surfer, Gary is also an ambassador and supporter of the surf therapy programme.
Carwyn Williams
Carwyn Williams is a legend of Welsh and UK surfing. Carwyn competed on the world stage as a professional surfer in the 1980’s achieving immense success until an accident cut his career short. Carwyn is an ambassador and supporter of the surf therapy programme.