What is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and Talk therapy is basically walking outdoors during your therapy session.  Sitting face to face, whether in an office or virtually, is not for everyone and sometimes even leads to people moving away from therapy.  Walking next to each other, side by side can feel less formal and less intense.  In addition, the act of walking and moving forward can act as a powerful catalyst for personal change. Walk and talk sessions are offered according to your own physical comfort level and pace and only available to clients in Northwest Indiana. 

What are the benefits?

Research shows that being out in nature can have a positive impact on our mood and motivation.  In addition, studies indicate the importance of addressing the mind and body connection during therapy to improve overall wellbeing. There are many benefits to being outdoors in nature, from receiving natural boosts of vitamin D from the sun, lowering stress levels, reducing anxiety, and depression symptoms, to reduced anger and increased confidence and boosted self-esteem. 

On a personal note, I can attest to the benefits of walk and talk therapy.  In my own journey working through challenges with depression, anxiety or previous trauma I have found pairing movement and the outdoors have inspired breakthroughs and growth that have resulted in positive personal transformation.  There’s something about the fresh air and movement, paired with a good therapist, that triggers hope and clarity.

Who is a good fit for Walk and Talk Therapy?

In recent years we have seen an increase in people working from home and sitting for long periods of time during their workday.  Walk and Talk therapy can offer those individuals the opportunity to get some movement while they work through mental and emotional challenges and offers a welcome change to their typical day.  In addition, some clients find it difficult to talk, think, or feel while sitting still.  They need to move their bodies and find that talking comes easier while walking.  Walk and Talk therapy also fits well with individuals who are very active and feel that physical activity is extremely important.  It is also a great way for individuals who find it difficult to find time for physical activity, or those who have been wanting to find a path to physical activity.  In reality, Walk and Talk therapy can be a good fit for anyone who is physically able to walk for 30-50 minutes.  The pace is set by you and there are many opportunities to sit if needed.  

I am interested in Walk and Talk therapy, what is next?

Before starting outdoor walking sessions you will have an initial consultation to determine whether it is a safe and good fit for you.  You will go through an assessment as well as an in-depth discussion about your reasons for wanting walk and talk therapy.  We will also go over important safety and confidentiality aspects of outdoor therapy.  If we find that this mode of therapy is a good fit we will discuss location and time.  Please note that you are never obligated to continue all sessions in this mode.  You have the option to do virtual sessions at any time.  These types of sessions will also be dependent on weather conditions.