Walk and Talk Therapy

Hit the streets with a new form of therapy.

Walk and Talk Therapy is a counseling session on the streets. Often these sessions occur outdoors, where the therapist and client walk side by side during their therapy journey.

Taking a walk together is an active metaphor for therapy. This therapy technique fuses the mind-body connection that many people require to make a change. For some, sitting in a quiet room with silence can be difficult. It can seem overwhelming, and walking outside the room can ‘break the ice.’

Many clients feel that Walk and Talk Therapy is a more relaxed environment than the counseling office. Walking while sharing your struggles and life stories can help you get grounded.

Being physically and emotionally present allows us to practice not rushing through our lives but truly experiencing them. Movement helps the client and therapist stay present, attuned, and active in striving to change. The science of walking enhances the “happy” brain chemicals released through endorphins.

Movement enhances the senses.

Walk and Talk Therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Just as with all approaches to therapy, clients can discontinue at any time.

Clients that are good candidates for this technique will be physically fit enough to walk with periodic breaks for 30-90 minutes, depending on the length of the session. This therapy is a therapeutic offering, not a requirement for my clients.

Candidates for this type of therapy will be those who feel comfortable discussing most portions of their treatment in open spaces where confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, and there aren’t concerns about others seeing them with their therapist. Clients that feel seated therapy is not working for them may also be a good fit for this approach.

Want to bring your dog? Great. Your pet can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. It can distract some clients, so you should decide based on your circumstance. Walk and Talk Therapy is an approach to counseling that we can introduce at any point in our work.

Walk and Talk Therapy is offered rain or shine in beautiful California; bring your umbrella, sunglasses, and hat.