Walk and Talk Therapy
What is walk and talk therapy?
Walk and talk therapy is exactly how it sounds. Instead of counselling in an office or virtually with your therapist, we take our sessions outside together. You get the physical benefits of walking outside in nature while talking with your therapist*.
*New clients require 1-2 virtual/phone sessions with their therapist before booking a walk & talk therapy session.
Why?
The research says physical activity is good for our mental health and it is! What else is good for our well-being is our physical environment. Much of our population lives and works in cities and towns that disconnect us from nature. Though, studies have shown that nature and specifically, the smell of pine trees (Morita et al., 2007), aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.
What can you expect?
Your therapist has carefully chosen walking trails that offer a mostly flat surface. This helps to ensure preoccupation with our footing doesn’t take away from the talking part of therapy. Your therapist also carries a backpack with a first aid kit, extra water, snacks, and your emergency contact information.
What If…
The Forecast is for Poor Weather?
In the event of rain or poor weather conditions that would otherwise impact being outdoors, we will conduct our session virtually or by phone. As much notice as possible will be given.
I Run into Someone I Know?
Your therapist will establish a plan you are comfortable with should we run into someone you or she knows. For example, you may choose to wave a quick hello and carry on but if the individual stops to chat, you may choose to introduce your therapist as a friend, neighbour, coworker, or old acquaintance.