Enjoy being in nature? Want to give Walk and Talk Therapy a try? Read below for more information
What is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Therapy doesn’t have to mean sitting down for most of an hour. Walk and Talk Therapy combines the healing power of a walk in nature with the therapeutic benefits of counselling. We meet at a local trail and walk at a gentle pace together, stopping and resting whenever you need, and you receive therapy while immersed in nature.
Where do we do it?
I offer Walk and Talk Therapy on local trails in Yellow Point and Cedar. My preferred trails are at Hemer park in Cedar, but if you have another favourite in the area we can absolutely discuss it. Ideally trails are relatively flat and wide, to allow an easy walking pace side by side without worrying about tripping on roots and uneven ground.
What if I don’t live locally?
We can do distance walk and talk therapy, head to your favorite trail, neighborhood or even your own backyard as long as it is in BC. We will ‘meet’ on the phone and walk together, but physically apart.
What are the benefits?
We intuitively know that being in nature is good for us, and a growing body of research supports that time in nature:
- Decreases symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Decreases stress and cortisol levels
- Increases creativity
- Promotes physical health
White et al (2019) found that spending at least 2 hours per week in nature promotes good health and wellbeing.
Time in nature is both grounding and healing, this can help anchor you through the counselling session. The forward motion of walking can help move emotions through, and the less intense eye contact with facing forward can be more comfortable for some.
What should I bring?
Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a water bottle.
What if we bump into someone I know?
We will discuss this and any other concerns at our initial intake appointment to create a plan that feels best for you.
What about the weather?
Walk and Talk therapy will not go ahead if the terrain is unsafe due to conditions such as ice or heavy winds. If you would rather not walk in the pouring rain that is also understandable! If weather conditions are unfavorable we can move to a telephone, virtual or in-person session.
*Please note that all new clients require a discovery call and initial intake appointment before booking their first walk and talk. Discovery calls are complementary and a useful way for you to assess if this counselling service is a good fit for you.
If you are a new client reach out to me at fionaabramcounselling@gmail.com or call 250 884 2312 to book your discovery call.
For more information, You’ve heard of forest bathing. Now try forest therapy. (nationalgeographic.com)
White, M.P., Alcock, I., Grellier, J. et al. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Sci Rep 9, 7730 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3