What Is Walk-and-Talk Therapy? Exploring Movement as a Path to Mental Wellness
When you picture therapy, you probably imagine a quiet room, two chairs, and a conversation behind closed doors. But what if healing didn’t have to stay inside four walls? Walk-and-talk therapy offers an alternative: taking the therapeutic conversation outside, literally. This innovative approach blends traditional talk therapy with the benefits of gentle movement and being in nature.
What Is Walk-and-Talk Therapy?
Walk-and-talk therapy is exactly what it sounds like—a session where therapist and client walk side by side outdoors, engaging in therapy while moving through a shared space. Typically conducted in a quiet park or trail, the format retains all the foundations of psychotherapy, but replaces the office setting with open air and forward motion.
This approach can be adapted to various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches. The therapist remains fully engaged, offering the same level of presence and professional care—just with a bit more fresh air.
Why Choose Walk-and-Talk Therapy?
For many clients, the idea of sitting across from a therapist in a formal office setting can feel intimidating or stagnant. Walk-and-talk therapy offers a more relaxed and organic environment, which can help ease nerves and promote a sense of freedom and openness.
Here are a few reasons clients may choose this format:
Improved Emotional Processing: The act of walking can help regulate the nervous system and make it easier to access and express emotions.
Reduced Intensity of Eye Contact: Without the pressure of face-to-face interaction, clients may feel more comfortable opening up.
Increased Physical Health Benefits: Light exercise and exposure to nature have proven benefits for mood, energy levels, and mental clarity.
Symbolic Movement: Walking forward can mirror a sense of emotional or psychological progress, helping clients feel momentum in their healing journey.
Is It Effective?
Yes—and research supports it. Studies show that physical activity, even in mild forms like walking, can decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. When paired with structured therapeutic work, walk-and-talk sessions can be just as effective as traditional sessions, particularly for those who benefit from movement or nature-based environments.
Is It for Everyone?
Walk-and-talk therapy may not be ideal for every client or concern. It requires a level of physical ability and comfort with being outside. It may also not be appropriate for clients working through trauma or those who feel unsafe in public or open spaces.
At Summit Counselling Services, your therapist will discuss the option with you to ensure it aligns with your goals, preferences, and safety considerations. Sessions may be adapted based on weather, accessibility, and clinical need, with the option to return to an office-based setting at any time.
Our newest clinician, Alex, offers walk-and-talk sessions on Wednesday evenings as part of her regular practice. If you’re curious to try this supportive, outdoor-based approach, you can learn more and book directly through her profile.