Therapy…Through Golf
Golf is a game of patience, thoughtfulness, and strategy. How we approach golf is quite similar to how we approach life. As I have gained interest in the hobby I have realized that it can be an avenue to connect with clients as well as help clients connect with themselves. How we respond to events on the course directly parallels to how we respond to trials in life. Getting overwhelmed and melting down over a mis hit is indicative of a need to work on emotional regulation. When situations get stressful do your frustrations boil over into throwing clubs or cursing fits? Generally if we are throwing clubs on the course, something is going on off the course. By playing together we can process those emotions and reactions, and extrapolate to the larger picture of life. Golf is an opportunity for self reflection as well as interpersonal connection.
Here in the DMV, I have many clients who have grown up with the sport. Therapy doesn’t have to be in an office. Why not on the course? It allows us a couple hours to delve deeper into issues and process immediate feedback. I provide the option to play 9 or 18 holes as part of a therapeutic experiential activity. These two to four-hour outings allow clinician and client to process emotions in real-time, and even dig into historical issues or methods of approaching difficult life situations.
I've learned so much about myself through golf, I look forward to using it as a tool to help others.