Walk & Talk Therapy
Walk & Talk therapy is a beautiful way to experience psychotherapy while simultaneously connecting more deeply to your body, to nature and your surroundings.
This approach helps to alleviate stress, eliminate distractions and get energy moving so that you may share openly and move emotions freely.
Walking side-by-side also can create a more organic and comfortable space for conversation in contrast to sitting in an office face-to-face.
As a bonus, you will naturally experience deeper breathing and endorphin release from the gentle movement. Research shows spending time looking at the sky during the day promotes better sleep.
“Amy genuinely cares about me as someone who she wants to see succeed in life…Recently, we transitioned to walk and talk therapy…and it really works for me. I enjoy being out in nature and breathing fresh air instead of being in her office. However, it is still an option if you enjoy therapy in an office setting.”
— M.B.
How do I know if Walk and Talk sessions are right for me?
You find it easy to communicate your thoughts, feelings, and emotions while walking in nature with another. I enjoy combining my mental health and physical health practices and do not find it to be distracting or distressing to be in nature. My therapist will enforce confidentiality standards to the best of her abilities considering nature is public area and there may be others present.
How will I know where to meet you?
You will receive a pin the day of our session directing you to exactly where we will meet.
I will determine an ideal location for the day depending on weather and other factors.
Will there be bathrooms?
We will start and end our walk near bathrooms.
Please use the bathroom ahead of time to ensure comfort.
Will people be able to hear our conversation?
Discretion is vital. We will do our best to route sessions in low/non-populated
areas and keep voices low to minimize.
What do I bring? What do I wear?
Some suggestions I find to be helpful:
• A hat
• Sunblock
• Wear comfy shoes or you can walk barefoot
• Water
• A journal/notebook
If you bring a journal or homework, feel free to bring a backpack to carry your things.
We can sit down and strategize at any point.
What if I don’t like to walk too much or don’t feel like it the day of the session? Are there any physical requirements or limitations?
These walks are at your own pace and energy level. They can be as strenuous or relaxed as you would like or need for the day. I encourage resting during the sessions frequently when shade and clinically appropriate. I also encourage you to share if you have injuries or preferences for the session. Many people do this as they prefer the nature environment and opt to sit the majority of the session.
You are always welcome to schedule your session as a walk & talk and change the location to video or phone at any time, including the day of however the in office location is not available. There is never an obligation to do physical activity if you don’t feel well enough to.
Can I bring my animal?
Yes! As long as your animal is not a distraction or source of anxiety for you that takes away from your ability to be present for yourself.
Can I do both online/in-person and walk & talk sessions?
Yes! You can alternate and mix it up, depending on your therapeutic, confidentiality, and activity needs. Walk & Talk sessions are currently offered on Friday mornings & Monday afternoons for ideal climate and light.