S.O.A.P. 

Strategies for Overcoming Aquatic Phobias

 

 

 

 

Our Services:

The S.O.A.P. Program

 S.O.A.P. Program's components assure that each participant is allowed the best possible opportunity to overcome their fear of water.

  •  Aquatic Instruction Component:

           - Aqua Phobic Water Adjustment Skills

           - Traditional Learn to Swim Techniques

  • Counseling/Coaching Component:

–         Behavior Modification

–         Relaxation Techniques

–         Emotional Inventory

–         Positive Imaging

–         Emotional Support Both In & Out of the Water

 

  • Cognitive Awareness Component:

–         Understand the Who, What, and Why of Aqua Phobia

–         Impact on Quality of Life

–         Goal Setting

–         Discussion of Strategies

–         Closure

 

S.O.A.P Bubbles:
Expectations for a Successful Experience

 

•       All participants must completely and unconditionally trust the instructor and the SOAP instructor must always validate the clients feelings.

•       Clients must recognize that their perception of the aquatic experience is overwhelmingly different from the reality of the situation.

•       Instructor must emphasize that at no time during the program will the clients be in any danger.

•       They are honest with themselves, the instructor and the other group members.

•       They maintain positive, realistic and receptive attitudes and goals.

•       They refrain from comparing their progress with other participants or with other events in their lives.

•       They must find the courage and inner strength to continue in spite of whatever anxiety, anger, frustration and discomfort they might experience during the lessons.

•       They will be learning to overcome their fears rather than learning to swim.

•       Both clients and instructor must maintain an appreciation and sensitivity to what a difficult challenge this is.

•       Finally, understand there will be peaks and valleys throughout this process.

 

Why is there a need for a S.O.A.P. program?

1. Our hybrid program addresses both the physical and emotional components of aquaphobia

2. We can not teach an individual how to swim without addressing the therapeutic component.

3. Swim instruction must be secondary to helping clients overcome their fear of water.

4. Mental health professionals do not increase the physical comfort level in the water and aquatic professionals do not decrease the emotional discomfort in the water.

 

 

Strategies for Overcoming Aquatic Phobias (S.O.A.P)

©2001. All rights reserved.