Walk and Talk Therapy

Written by Carrie Gardner, MA, PLPC

Walking is what the human body was designed to do, and it pairs so well with talking!   As a counselor at Walter’s Walk I enjoy serving clients in the traditional setting of an inviting therapy room with comfortable seating.  However, the thought of taking a session outdoors and setting it in motion makes sense because the mental benefits of walking make it a natural complement to talk therapy.  Clients are offered the opportunity to walk outdoors where a nearby park serves as the therapeutic backdrop.  The combination of walking and talking offers a refreshingly harmonious alternative to the traditional therapy session.  

 Walking + Talking for an Augmented Therapy Session:

• Walking while talking out complex issues helps the client to push through inflexible thought patterns.   Body and mind work cohesively in an onward momentum.  Walking outdoors can be especially awakening as the delights and distractions of nature appeal to the senses.

• Mood improvement, which is a natural result of physical activity due to the release of feel-good endorphins in the body, leads to more productive, meaningful thinking.  Depressive symptoms such as indecisiveness and diminished interest dissipate as a positive outlook emerges.

• Walking in stride with the therapist may alleviate feelings of apprehension for the client as sensitive or weighty subjects are explored.  Side by side movement offers an alternative to sitting in a therapy office facing each other while tackling concerns.  The element of empathetic understanding remains without the discomfort that continuous eye contact sometimes elicits.  

• As therapist and client walk in step with each other, a connection develops.  What better way to foster the therapeutic alliance than to embark on a fifty minute journey together!  

• Self-esteem increases due to a sense of accomplishment.  Stepping out of the box to try a new and proactive approach to healing reinforces a feeling of empowerment.  

The concept of walk and talk therapy is not limited to the individual counseling format.  It is offered as a group experience right here at Walter’s Walk.  After meeting at the counseling center, participants partner off and walk and talk through a nearby park for the first half of the group.  The second half consists of a circle discussion period to balance the physical activity.   Group members will have the chance to experience socialization and support, gain a different perspective by talking with a walking partner, and be a source of motivation and presence for each other.  Some examples of circle discussion topics include mindfulness, communication, self care, and meditation.  

Walk and talk therapy is suitable for every fitness level since the client sets the pace.  It may particularly benefit those struggling with adjustment issues, depression, and anxiety; though a walk in the park is certainly an option for every client seeking positive change!  If you would like to find out more about a walk and talk therapy group at Walter’s Walk or are interested in participating in one, please contact me at carrie.gardner@walterswalk.com.  

(Source http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/walk-and-talk-therapy)