Most people love the outdoors and like to work out with someone, and sometimes we just need to talk with someone and “vent” or explain our problems we are having so they can help. This type of workout would be great for someone who is already talking with someone (therapy) and wants to work out at the same time to maximize their time and their day. It’s called Walk-and-Talk therapy. Let’s dive in and see what it is exactly and if it could benefit you.
What is Walk-and-Talk Therapy?
Walk-and-talk therapy, also referred to as hiking therapy, takes your therapy sessions outdoors. It can happen anywhere really, in a public park or on nearby trails. This alternative provides a new approach by infusing the benefits of fresh air and exercise into a therapy session that you would normally have in an office or online.
Research has shown that movement, whether it’s a leisurely walk or a brisk hike, can make it easier for some people to discuss their feelings. Many clients prefer to move or walk as opposed to sitting across from their therapist in an office or looking through a screen.
Some practitioners are finding walk-and-talk therapy particularly helpful in teenagers and younger clients. Researchers have also found that some of clients are more at ease in nature, which improves their ability to open up. Sitting down for a one-on-one conversation in close quarters can be uncomfortable for some clients, so taking the conversation outside can help relieve some of that pressure.
Any ethical concerns about walk-and-talk therapy?
There are some ethical questions to consider before you start your first walk. Once you venture out of the office or the living room and into the public area, you have less control over the privacy of your session.
There’s the possibility that you will see someone you know, or you may come across someone who recognizes your mental health professional, then in return see you as a client of theirs. In addition to that, depending on how busy the park or the trail is, there’s also a chance your conversation may be overheard by someone.
Discuss any concerns prior to your first walk-and-talk session with your therapist, so you can make an informed decision together.
That way, when you’re out on the trail, you can use the walk to focus on your conversation—not distractions.
How can Walk-and-Talk Therapy Help Me?
A walk-and-talk therapy session has many benefits and opportunities for clients. It has the ability to reduce stress, relieve body tensions, improve circulation, breath deep, and clear the mind of negative thoughts. They help decrease anxiety, regulate mood, and enjoy a more peaceful sleep. Plus in addition to that you get the added benefit of the feel good brain chemical that is released during exercise. Amplify your wellbeing! It has been proven that sunshine, green spaces, and regular movement or exercise are all linked to improvements in mood, mental health, and decrease negative thoughts all while supercharging your wellbeing!
Thank you for reading my Blog and I hope you got something out of it even if it’s just information you can use in the future. I will post a link below to an example of the Walk-and-Talk therapy for young adults. I find it very interesting and I know that my own son could definitely benefit from this type of therapy.
I hope you have a happy and healthy life,
Take Care,
Darren
Young adult wilderness therapy program.
Harmony Shift 