Walk & Talk Sessions

Walk & talk counselling simply means that we take the traditional counselling session outside. There are many benefits to being outdoors:

• Being outdoors can help us practice focusing on the nature that surrounds us. As we do this, we are developing a skill of mindfulness and the idea of paying attention to one thing right now in the present moment. For some people, this practice may bring some comfort in day-to-day life and at times of overwhelm.
• It can be interesting how nature offers us things that might be used as a metaphor for our current situation. In the same way, nature can offer us a reflection or understanding of our inner experiencing.
• Just being outdoors can help our bodies to relax which can allow space for us to notice our thoughts and feelings more clearly.
• I understand that sitting in a room, one-to-one with a counsellor, might feel daunting and contribute to increased anxiety. Being outside and walking or sitting side-by-side can feel quite different to being in a room together, and might be helpful especially for people who feel uncomfortable with intense eye contact.
• Being outdoors and moving can support our emotional and physical wellbeing as our body releases endorphins known to boost mood.
• Although still in a therapeutic relationship, the therapeutic space becomes equally ours. When we meet outdoors, we are on common ground and sharing the experience of being outside. This sense of equality might feel important for you.
• You may enjoy being outside, either walking or sitting in the fresh air, but not have many opportunities to do so. Taking your counselling session outdoors could give you 50 minutes a week for you to do that.

 

 

You might choose for us to walk for the session, and we can do this at your pace. You may want us to take a seat somewhere or you may choose a mixture of both.

I'm flexible in how we use the outdoor space and happy to work together in a way that helps you to feel most relaxed and comfortable.

If you think outdoor therapy is something you're interested in, please do contact me.

If you decide to go ahead and book you first session, we can listen to any parts of you that hold any concerns, or have any questions, about working outdoors.