Walk & Talk Therapy
Walk-and-talk therapy can be known by different names. Some might know it by:
Outdoor/outside therapy
Hiking therapy
Walking therapy
Regardless of the name, this form of therapy brings the provider and the patient outside the therapy room. For some people, being outdoors and not having to sit in an office room allows them to feel more comfortable, which in turn increases their openness to talking. Although this specific form of therapy encourages a tranquil place like a hiking trail or body of water nearby, many people benefit from just being outside and going for a walk.
Walk-and-talk therapy is not a new concept and has its roots in mindfulness-based therapy, as well as body-oriented therapy. Numerous research studies show the benefits of the outdoors, as well as bringing the outdoors inside (e.g. having plants in the home). Some benefits to the outdoors include decreased anxiety, increased concentration and happiness, improved creativity, and better physical health. There are some great articles from the American Psychological Association regarding the benefits of getting outside. I encourage you to check them out:
Getting Back to the Great Outdoors
Walk-and-talk therapy is a service that I have done sparingly in the past and will offer it on a more routine basis once I am back in the office. Given COVID-19 guidelines and social distancing requirements, this form of therapy may allow me to see individuals who dislike online therapy or would benefit from in-person sessions.
If you are interested in trying walk-and-talk therapy, please let me know during our next session or when you call as a new patient. I will be more than happy to speak to you about this option and discuss the risks and benefits associated with this form of therapy. We are going into the summer months, and it might be a great time to try it out.
Common Questions with Walk-and-Talk Therapy:
Should I bring sneakers to walk-and-talk therapy?
Although sneakers are not required, they are strongly recommended and encouraged. I usually change from my “office shoes” to sneakers for comfort.
Will you force me to do walk-and-talk therapy?
Absolutely not! If you or I think this form of therapy might be beneficial, we will discuss it first. As with any form of therapy, there are both benefits and risks which we will thoroughly discuss before you make a decision. If you decide to try walk-and-talk therapy and dislike it, we bring you back into the office!
Do I have to actually walk and hike?
Not necessarily. For some people, just being outside is helpful. If you are less of a walker and would like to sit outside, we will find a location to do that.
Can I bring my dog with me?
As long as your dog is leashed, and their personality and temperament allow for them to socialize with others, yes. If it is determined that you will bring your dog on our outing, you will be required to adhere to any local ordinances and take full responsibility and liability for your dog.
Can I bring food/water with me?
Yes! I encourage you to bring water or something else to drink on our walks.
Will I get gross and sweaty?
Everyone’s sweat and tolerance levels are different. If it seems like it might be too hot or humid, we can conduct the session indoors for the day.