Shake Counselling - Mental Health Support for Young People

At Shake Counselling in Geelong, we've witnessed remarkable transformations when young people engage in movement-based therapy. But this isn't just feel-good anecdotal evidence – there's solid science behind why physical activity and mental health support work so powerfully together.

The Neuroscience of Movement and Mental Health

Brain Chemistry Changes

When we move our bodies, particularly through rhythmic, sustained activity, our brains undergo significant chemical changes:

Endorphin Release:

Natural mood elevators that reduce pain perception
Create feelings of euphoria and wellbeing
Provide natural stress relief
Last for hours after activity

Neurotransmitter Balance:

Increased serotonin production (mood regulation)
Enhanced dopamine levels (motivation and reward)
Improved norepinephrine function (attention and arousal)
Reduced cortisol (stress hormone)

Neuroplasticity and Growth

Physical activity stimulates:

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production
New neural pathway formation
Improved cognitive flexibility
Enhanced memory and learning capacity

Movement-Based Therapy Approaches

Basketball Therapy

Our signature basketball therapy program combines sport with therapeutic intervention:

Therapeutic Benefits:

Side-by-side interaction reduces therapeutic pressure
Game metaphors translate to life skills
Achievement in sport builds general confidence
Team elements develop social skills
Physical exertion releases emotional tension

Evidence Base: Research shows that sports-based interventions can be as effective as traditional therapy for many young people, particularly those who struggle with verbal expression or sitting still.

Walking Therapy

Taking therapy outdoors creates unique therapeutic opportunities:

Bilateral Movement Benefits:

Stimulates both brain hemispheres
Enhances emotional processing
Reduces rumination and overthinking
Promotes present-moment awareness

Nature Connection:

Reduces stress hormones
Improves attention and focus
Provides vitamin D benefits
Creates calming environmental cues

Dance and Movement Therapy

Expressive movement offers:

Non-verbal emotional expression
Body awareness development
Creative problem-solving
Social connection through shared movement
Cultural expression and identity exploration

The Evidence Base

Research Findings

Depression and Anxiety:

Exercise can be as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression
Anxiety symptoms reduce significantly with regular physical activity
Benefits often apparent within 2-4 weeks of consistent activity

Trauma Recovery:

Movement helps process trauma stored in the body
Rhythmic activities regulate nervous system
Physical empowerment supports psychological healing
Group movement builds social connection

ADHD and Attention:

Physical activity improves focus and attention
Reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviours
Enhances executive function
Provides healthy outlet for excess energy

Specific Benefits for Young People

Adolescent Brain Development:

Supports healthy neural development
Improves emotional regulation capacity
Enhances social skill development
Builds resilience and coping strategies

Implementing Movement-Based Interventions

Assessment and Planning

Individual Considerations:

Physical capabilities and limitations
Personal interests and preferences
Cultural background and values
Previous experiences with physical activity
Current mental health presentation

Tailored Approaches

For Anxiety:

Gentle, rhythmic activities
Individual or small group settings
Emphasis on breathing and mindfulness
Gradual intensity building

For Depression:

Energising but achievable activities
Social connection opportunities
Goal-setting and achievement focus
Mood tracking integration

For Trauma:

Body awareness and safety emphasis
Choice and control prioritisation
Grounding techniques integration
Trauma-informed movement practices

Integration with Traditional Therapy

Complementary Approaches

Movement-based therapy works best when integrated with:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Mindfulness-based interventions
Family therapy approaches

Session Structure

Typical Integration:

Movement warm-up and connection
Physical activity with therapeutic conversation
Cool-down and reflection
Skills practice and homework planning

Overcoming Barriers

Common Concerns

Emphasis on movement, not performance
Adaptation to all ability levels
Focus on personal progress
Non-competitive environments

Wide variety of movement options
Start small and build gradually
Include fun and play elements
Connect to personal interests

Adaptive approaches for all abilities
Chair-based movement options
Focus on capabilities, not limitations
Assistive technology integration

Creating Inclusive Environments

Accessibility Considerations:

Physical space modifications
Equipment adaptations
Communication accommodations
Cultural sensitivity
Gender-inclusive practices

Family and Carer Involvement

Supporting Home Practice

Encouraging Movement:

Model active lifestyles
Participate in family activities
Celebrate small achievements
Reduce screen time barriers
Create movement opportunities

Understanding the Approach

Help families understand:

Why movement matters for mental health
How to support without pressuring
When to seek professional guidance
How to maintain motivation
Warning signs to watch for

Long-Term Benefits

Sustainable Wellbeing

Movement-based therapy teaches:

Lifelong coping strategies
Body awareness and regulation
Social connection skills
Resilience building
Self-efficacy development

Prevention Focus

Regular physical activity helps prevent:

Future mental health episodes
Physical health problems
Social isolation
Academic difficulties
Substance use issues

Measuring Outcomes

Assessment Tools

Progress Indicators:

Mood and anxiety rating scales
Functional assessment measures
Social connection metrics
Physical fitness improvements
Goal achievement tracking

Qualitative Measures

Important Indicators:

Increased therapy engagement
Improved communication
Greater self-confidence
Enhanced peer relationships
Better family dynamics

The Shake Counselling Approach

Our Methodology

Core Principles:

Young person choice and control
Strength-based focus
Trauma-informed practice
Family and community involvement
Evidence-based integration

Service Delivery:

Individual movement therapy
Group programs and activities
Family involvement sessions
Community integration support
Peer mentoring opportunities

Innovation and Development

We continuously:

Research new approaches
Evaluate program effectiveness
Adapt to individual needs
Train staff in best practices
Collaborate with other services

Getting Started

Assessment Process

Initial Considerations:

Current mental health presentation
Physical health and capabilities
Personal interests and goals
Family dynamics and support
Cultural and social factors

Building Motivation

Engagement Strategies:

Start with preferred activities
Set achievable goals
Celebrate small wins
Connect to personal values
Build social elements

The Future of Movement-Based Therapy

Emerging Approaches

Innovations in Development:

Virtual reality enhanced movement
Technology-supported activities
Environmental therapy programs
Adventure-based interventions
Cultural movement practices

Research Directions

Areas of Investigation:

Optimal activity types and intensities
Individual matching strategies
Long-term outcome tracking
Cost-effectiveness analysis
Integration with other interventions

Conclusion

Movement-based therapy represents a paradigm shift in mental health support – one that recognises the fundamental connection between our physical and mental wellbeing. For young people who may struggle with traditional talk therapy, movement offers an accessible, engaging, and effective pathway to healing and growth.

At Shake Counselling in Geelong, we're proud to be pioneers in this field, combining rigorous evidence-based practice with innovative approaches that truly meet young people where they are. Whether it's shooting hoops, walking along the waterfront, or dancing to express emotions, movement-based therapy opens new possibilities for healing and thriving.

The science is clear: when we move our bodies, we heal our minds. For young people facing mental health challenges, this isn't just good news – it's a game-changer.