Walk & Talk Therapy

What is Walk and Talk Therapy?

If you have ever been so upset that you needed to take a walk…If you have ever been so overwhelmed that you needed to go outside to clear your mind … If you have ever sat on a beach and allowed the waves to carry your hurt away… Then you intuitively understand that movement and time in nature can significantly improve your mental health.

 

Walk & Talk therapy is exactly what it sounds like, therapy while walking. It offers the same benefits as traditional therapy but occurs while moving side-by-side with your therapist in nature. 

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What are the Benefits of Walk And Talk Therapy?

Physical Movement and Mental Health:

• Incorporating physical activity into therapy has numerous benefits. Exercise is known to release endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, the rhythmic movement of walking can be meditative, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Engaging in regular exercise can increase your stamina and strength and improve the way you feel about your body and yourself. It increases blood flow and can leave you feeling more energized. 

Connection with Nature:

• Spending time in natural surroundings has been linked to improved mental health. Walk and talk therapy allows clients to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, fostering a sense of peace and connection with the environment. Nature has a calming effect on the mind and can enhance the therapeutic session. For some clients, being outdoors is a spiritual and grounding experience. 

Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving:

• Walking can stimulate creative thinking. The change in environment and increased oxygen intake during outdoor walks can enhance cognitive function, making it easier for clients to explore new perspectives and find solutions to challenges they may be facing.

Reduced Stigma and Increased Comfort:

• Walk and talk therapy breaks away from the traditional office setting, which can be intimidating for some individuals. The outdoor environment promotes a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, reducing the perceived stigma associated with seeking therapy. This increased comfort can lead to more open and honest communication.

Symbolism and Movement:

• The physical act of walking can symbolize progress and forward movement in one's life. As clients move through the therapy session, it can become a metaphor for their personal journey and growth. This symbolism can be empowering and motivating for individuals working on becoming unstuck.

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What Should I Expect?

First, we’ll meet at our Apollo Beach office for a traditional intake session, where we will get to know each other, talk about your concerns, clarify your goals, and determine if Walk and Talk therapy is right for you. After this initial in-office session, we can incorporate Walk and Talk therapy sessions. All sessions will begin and end at the office. During your session, we will walk side-by-side through a neighboring nature preserve along a beachside trail and talk just as we would in any other therapy session. The setting can elevate sessions by allowing space to mindfully notice your environment and your movement, which can help ground you in emotionally difficult moments. 

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What About Privacy?

Conducting therapy in an uncontrolled environment does mean that we cannot guarantee confidentiality in the same way we can in a traditional setting. While your therapist will continue to hold everything you say in confidence, there is always a chance that someone may observe you walking or overhear something you have said. However, most people we encounter along our path will be quickly walking past us, wearing headphones, or involved in their own conversation. Your comfort with that possibility should inform your decision on whether or not this type of therapy is right for you. 

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How Do I Know if Walk and Talk Therapy is for me?

Walk and Talk Therapy might be right for you if...

• You enjoy the outdoors and find nature comforting. 

• You have difficulty processing your thoughts or feel like they "get stuck" in your mind. 

• You find that you get the best ideas and feel the most motivated while moving.

• You would like to incorporate more exercise in your life but are limited on time or resources.

• Others have described you as "energetic" and you find it easier to focus while moving. 

• You feel intimidated by the idea of traditional in-office therapy and would prefer to meet in a more natural setting. 

• You are interested in research-based methods to boost your mood in a more holistic way.