Therapeutic Fly–Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR)ˢᵐ In-Person in Dane County, Wisconsin, and Surrounding Areas

Sometimes, healing starts by simply

casting away the weight of your past.

When life feels overwhelming, stepping into nature can bring clarity and calm you never knew you needed.

Therapeutic fly-fishing has gained attention recently, thanks in part to Netflix’s Mending the Line as well as organizations like the Mayfly Project, and the Seiyu Institute for Health and Training’s Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR)ˢᵐ. TF-EMDR is an approved EMDRIA protocol.

While much of the focus has been on veterans and first responders, this powerful intervention is equally beneficial for children, adolescents, and adults from all backgrounds. Many clients find it helpful to step outside traditional therapy settings and embrace the outdoors. For some, the physical movement involved is key, while others feel less stigma being out in nature over sitting in an office. Personally, I find time spent in the woods or near water deeply restorative, both mentally and physically.

MAYBE YOU’RE…

＊ Experiencing emotional numbness

＊ Having nightmares and scary daydreams

＊ Feeling like the world or your environment isn't safe

＊ Losing trust in others, including those close to you 

＊ Avoiding certain people, places, or activities

＊ Overly anxious or stressed out

＊ Feeling physical pain & discomfort, like stomach and

headaches 

＊ Struggling to concentrate or focus on things 

＊ Feeling mood swings, like extreme anger then

unbearable sadness

Catch and release isn’t just fishing—it’s about letting go and finding meaning.

Why would I add Fly-Fishing to therapy?

There is scientific evidence to support the mental health benefits of being in nature or near water. Nature-based therapy, like fishing, taps into the science of the outdoors, offering unique benefits to mental health by combining movement, fresh air, and water-related environments. If you’ve ever experienced a float therapy session or a sound bath, you’ve likely already felt some of the benefits of adding natural elements into therapy.

This therapy is helpful not only for the diehard angler, but also for someone who has never touched a fishing pole. For some, it may reconnect with the nostalgic memories of fishing with a beloved grandparent, while others may recapture their connection to the outdoors, if their early experiences were not physically or emotionally safe.

To learn more about the origin of TF-EMDR, click here.

To learn more about EMDR, click here.

To learn more about working with Rebecca Mahan-Strupp, MA, LPC, EMDR Consultant click here.

Therapy for trauma can help with…

  • Cultivating more compassion for yourself & your story

  • Improving relationships and deepening connection

  • Fostering a sense of inner peace & calm

  • Feeling whole & more satisfied with your life

  • Experiencing less fear & darkness

  • Increasing your sense of self-awareness & control

  • Enjoying more productivity & focus in day-to-day life

  • Feeling more in control of your emotions & responses

Whether you're an expert or it's your first time casting a line, the benefits of fly-fishing go far beyond the catch.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Tenkara is a simple, fixed-line fishing method that is relatively easy to set up and learn to cast. We will incorporate the teaching of this technique as a part of your therapeutic goals, focusing on slowing down to be in the present and building your confidence with something new.

  • There are many reasons someone might not enjoy fishing. Some dislike bugs, bait, or cleaning fish, and for others there are childhood memories of fishing that aren’t positive experiences . These are all valid reasons for not considering oneself a sportsman! Fortunately, outdoor therapy focuses more on engaging with your environment than on fishing itself. Also, with Tenkara fishing there’s no use of live bait, and I follow a catch-and-release practice, meaning there’s no fish to clean.

  • I grew up eating the fish we caught, so I had many personal reactions to this when I took my Apprentice training. While we adhere to Wisconsin laws regarding length and weight limits, I've discovered that the catch-and-release process offers a unique focus for therapeutic processing. It provides opportunities for important metaphors about letting go and honoring life, creating rich material for exploring emotions. And yes, I still enjoy a good old Wisconsin Friday fish fry!

  • Like any fishing trip, there’s no guarantee that you will catch something. The therapeutic process embraces this aspect, helping clients work on frustration tolerance, managing disappointment, and staying present rather than focusing on the outcome.

  • Clients will need to dress appropriately for the weather, with layers and safe shoes. Wading is purely a client choice and is not available in all locations. I will provide the Tenkara rods, tackle, and other gear. Eye protection is required; you are welcome to wear your own glasses or sunglasses or to utilize the eye protection provided. You are encouraged to bring your own sunscreen, hats, and bug spray, as well as snacks and water. Life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) are required for anyone under 16, even if we’re on the banks, and are also recommended for anyone with mobility or balance concerns.

  • If you’re not comfortable with the weather, you’ll have the option to switch to an indoor or telehealth session. Light rain and overcast skies can often create great fishing conditions, but your comfort and safety in the environment are our top priorities.

  • We will adhere to Wisconsin fishing regulations and fishing seasons. If you'd like to continue your EMDR processing during the colder months, you will have the option to transition to office sessions until spring!

  • It doesn’t have to be! One of the great things about Wisconsin waterways is the diversity. To the west, we have the Driftless Area, and to the east, the Great Lakes. In between, we have beautiful opportunities for bass, panfish, and other native Wisconsin species.

  • There are various options in and around Dane County for fishing locations. Part of the intake process will involve identifying an accessible spot that works for you.

  • While we will do our best to make your experience as private as possible, we will be on public waterways. For this reason, you will be asked to sign a waiver regarding outdoor activities and privacy. During the intake process, we will discuss ways to maintain your confidentiality.

  • Maybe. Some policies do cover one-hour outdoor sessions with the appropriate medical necessity. However, therapy intensives are typically not covered by insurance.