PRIORITISING YOUR WELL-BEING TO
CULTIVATE POSITIVE LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Walk and Talk Therapy
Walk and Talk Therapy
Walk and talk therapy, also known as outdoor therapy, refers to talking therapy sessions that take place outside while moving. Walk and talk counsellors work in a variety of outdoor settings, such as forests, local footpaths/streets and even walking around city/urban environments.
Why choose Walk and talk therapy:
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Supports weight loss, lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity, speeds up digestion, and improves heart health.
2. Being outside releases endorphins and is generally mood-enhancing and reduces physical and emotional stress.
3. Walking in nature can improve creative thought processes, ease feelings of isolation, which is especially important for those who work from home.
4. Being outdoors is a physically more relaxing experience for our bodies and, therefore, our minds may be freer to open up.
5. Walking together side by side also means a sense of equality and union in the partnership between client and counsellor.
6. Can be beneficial for those who may feel a little anxious or claustrophobic in the environment of a one-on-one session in a room.
These are some of the main reasons why we started to offer walk and talk therapy as it is an ideal way of getting the benefits of both mind and body wellness at the same time for both client and practitioner. Of course, counselling in-person, via telephone or online still has a place for many clients. However, the choice of how sessions take place must always sit with the client, it’s important to outline the pros and cons of walk and talk counselling and consider which option is best for you.
What can clients expect from Walk and Talk Therapy sessions?
Your first session will take place in a counselling room where you will discuss issues of confidentiality and how you will negotiate encountering other people when out walking. It is important to remember that people walking and talking side by side is a very common sight and therefore a client and therapist walking side by side doesn't look any different.
Your counsellor will typically meet you at the same time and place each week. You should also be able to advise in advance about the nature of routes used and will check if you have any medical or accessibility needs which may affect you during the session.
Sessions take place in all weathers, so make sure to wear appropriate clothes and shoes. It’s also important to bring any other essential items – such as a coat, umbrella, bottle of water, sun hat, asthma inhaler etc – with you.
During the session, you’ll be able to walk along at a gentle pace whilst speaking about whatever is important to you. You can also choose to sit down or rest at any time.
Where?
We offer Walk and Talk Therapy in a selection of Parks and green spaces in: Harrow, Hayes, Uxbridge, Ruislip, Northolt and Greenford.
Accessibility and Outdoor Therapy
Outdoor therapy is suitable for everyone, no matter what accessibility requirements or support you may have. In advance of session’s, you should inform your counsellor if you have any medical or accessibility needs which may affect you during the session. Sessions can often be tailored to use outdoor spaces that are wheelchair accessible and are suitable for people with limited or no mobility, as well as those who may have sensory processing disorders.
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Walk and Talk Therapy FAQs
What about the weather?
Many counsellor’s are happy to talk in any weather, but if you prefer not to, let your counsellor know. If it is too hot or raining, they may be able to suggest an alternative.
What about confidentiality?
During your first session your counsellor will discuss issues of confidentiality and how we will negotiate encountering other people when out walking. To maintain confidentiality boundaries, your counsellor may suggest using a codeword or phrase to pause the conversation until you are alone again.
What about boundaries?
Although the physical boundaries are different, both client and counsellor must remember that they are still engaged in a therapeutic relationship. The working contract is still present and valid, even though you are outside.
What if I’m not used to walking?
Your counsellor will walk as quickly or slowly as feels comfortable for you. You may decide you'd like to take a pause at a nearby bench or walk throughout. It's totally up to you as the client.