RESURFACE NORTH
Surf Therapy

Resurface North is a brief mental health and wellness intervention, taking place over several days, in a retreat style format at the White Point Beach Resort.

Dr. Susie McAfee, a registered Psychologist and owner of www.lifecentrepsychology.ca is the founder and facilitator of Resurface North.

This program is a unique blend of surf therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and peer support. Retreat participants will be provided food, accommodations, surf lessons, and gear; no prior surfing experience is required.

Eligibility

Participants must be former military, RCMP or other first responders who are in active recovery from service related stress and mental health conditions. In most cases they will be off work or retired. 

Participants must be in good health. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept those with physical differences or TBI at this time. Swimming ability is strongly recommended.

This program is for those with mental health challenges, however, participants must be engaged in treatment and relatively stable. Active substance abuse is not permitted.

Verification

The composition of each group is carefully considered to ensure psychological safety and maximize the benefit of the program for participants. Where you are welcomed to apply anytime, Dr. McAfee will contact you directly to gather basic information and complete a brief screening. 

Predetermination of insurance coverage

Retreats are facilitated by a clinical psychologist registered as a Federal Administered Program Provider with Medavie Blue Cross. As such, coverage for the cost of the program may be approved prior to registration. In cases where full costs are not covered there may be options through other organizations. 

Consultation with primary clinician

Consent will be obtained to contact your individual therapist. This is necessary to be sure that the Resurface North program is a good fit in addition to other psychological work you may be doing. Our program is meant to be an adjunct to supplement longer term work and is in no way a substitute or replacement.

Await further instructions

You will be contacted prior to the start of the retreat with details about everything you need to know! There may also be an opportunity for a 1:1 video session to discuss anything that might be on your mind ahead of time if that would be helpful. Informed consent will be obtained, limits of confidentiality discussed, photo release, and safety waivers signed.