Walk and Talk Therapy is now available. I recently moved into a larger space with more natural light and it feels great! However, as much as I love my new space there is no substitute for being outside and being active. Therefore “Walk and Talk” was the natural “next step” for my practice (get it ;-)). Walk and Talk therapy has been growing in popularity since 2004. It allows client’s to gain the benefits of traditional psychotherapy while having the added benefits of walking. Being active and being out in nature can help bring better balance to your life. For those who typically spend much of their time at a desk or indoors, it’s great to be outside and walking while engaging in dynamic conversations about your mood, mentality, and solutions to problems.
During our walks we can focus on mindfulness, coping skills, and stress reduction in addition to other concerns. I believe that being active and connecting with nature helps to create a healthy balance in your life and refocus your efforts on the fundamentals of good mental health. While on our walks, we conduct therapy in the same way that we would in the office. While walking, we can more easily practice mindfulness, stress reduction and connect with the outdoors. When your body is moving forward you can make great strides towards moving your mind forward and achieving your therapeutic goals.
Walks are typically taken on the Venetian Waterway Park (Legacy Trail) which is located directly behind my office in Southbridge Park. While walking along the waterway we have the opportunity to see dolphins, tortoises and a variety of birds. It cannot be guaranteed that others will not overhear parts of a conversation. However, this issue can be easily navigated by pausing while talking if we pass someone and typically does not present a significant issue during Walk & Talk sessions.
It is always the clients choice to make the “weather call” if it is too hot or rainy. Please come to session already in appropriate walking shoes and clothing. If you need to change there is a bathroom in the office for your convenience. This is slow to moderate walking. You set the pace. The goal is not exercise but rather your therapeutic progress. With that said, you will likely feel more energized after a 40 minute walk and 10 minute cool down/ review back in the office.
There is more information about Walk and Talk therapy available in this video, or under the Services tab and FAQ -Walk & Talk Therapy tab on this website. As always please feel free to reach out to me via email or phone.
