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Walk and Talk Therapy: Nature's Healing Power

Anneli RichardsLMFT, Owner & Director
April 4, 2023
4 min read
Walk and Talk Therapy: Nature's Healing Power

For as long as there have been human beings on this planet, there have been people who took a walk when they were feeling a strong negative emotion. There is just something so beneficial about walking. It seems to calm us down and clear our minds.

What Is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and talk therapy is exactly what it sounds like -- therapy sessions conducted while walking outdoors instead of sitting in a traditional office. This approach combines the proven benefits of physical movement and nature exposure with the therapeutic process.

Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy

Physical Benefits

  • Increases endorphins and natural mood elevators
  • Reduces physical tension and stress
  • Improves cardiovascular health
  • Boosts energy levels
  • Psychological Benefits

  • The side-by-side positioning reduces the intensity of direct eye contact, which some people find more comfortable
  • Physical movement can help process difficult emotions
  • Nature has been shown to reduce cortisol and anxiety
  • Walking creates a sense of forward movement that can mirror therapeutic progress
  • Accessibility Benefits

  • May feel less intimidating than a traditional therapy office
  • Can be a good fit for clients who are restless or fidgety
  • Particularly helpful for clients who struggle to sit still
  • May help break through therapeutic plateaus
  • Who Can Benefit?

    Walk and talk therapy can be especially helpful for:

  • People dealing with anxiety or depression
  • Those who feel uncomfortable in traditional office settings
  • Individuals who process better while moving
  • Children and adolescents
  • Anyone who enjoys being outdoors
  • What to Expect

    Sessions typically last the same amount of time as traditional therapy (50 minutes). Routes are chosen for privacy and accessibility, and the same therapeutic approaches are used -- just in a different setting.

    If you're interested in walk and talk therapy, reach out to learn more about how we incorporate nature into the healing process.

    Tags

    mental healthnaturetherapy

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