What is Walk & Talk Therapy?
When you think “therapy” you might imagine an office setting with two chairs, tranquil lighting, a white noise machine humming in the background, art deco and some indoor plants. However, therapy doesn’t only take place in the traditional clinical setting. Walk & Talk Therapy, sometimes called outdoor therapy or walking therapy, moves the counseling process outside—blending fresh air, gentle movement, and nature with meaningful connection and dialogue.
Instead of sitting face-to-face, client and therapist may walk side by side, or find a spot to sit outdoors. This small shift can create a big difference: many people find that moving their bodies helps their thoughts move more freely, too.
The Benefits
Walk & Talk Therapy combines the benefits of traditional talk therapy with the calming effects of being outdoors. Studies show that time in nature can ease stress, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and boost overall well-being. Adding therapy to that natural setting makes the experience even more powerful.
Some of the benefits include:
Reduced stress and anxiety – Fresh air, natural light, and movement can calm the nervous system.
Clarity and focus – Walking often helps people process emotions and ideas more fluidly.
Mindfulness and grounding – The rhythm of footsteps, sounds of birds, or the feel of the breeze create opportunities to reconnect with the present moment.
Comfortable conversation flow – Side-by-side walking feels less intimidating than face-to-face, helping clients open up more easily.
Who is Walk & Talk Therapy For?
Outdoor therapy can be helpful for many people, but it’s especially supportive for those who:
Feel restless or “stuck” in traditional office-based counseling
Prefer a more holistic, whole-body approach to mental health
Crave the grounding and healing effects of being in nature
If sitting indoors feels confining or overwhelming, therapy in nature can be a refreshing change of pace.
What to Expect in a Walk & Talk Session
A session usually begins with a short check-in, followed by walking at a comfortable pace on a safe trail or path. Your therapist will match your comfort level—this isn’t about exercise, but about creating space for conversation, reflection, and healing.
Sessions may include:
Gentle walking and talking at your own pace
Tools for managing stress, anxiety, or life transitions
Moments of quiet reflection or mindfulness
Your therapist will also discuss practical considerations such as safety, privacy, and weather so you know exactly what to expect.
A Refreshing Approach to Therapy
Walking therapy offers more than just a change of scenery—it’s a chance to connect with yourself in a deeper way. For many clients, the forward motion of walking mirrors the movement they want to create in their lives: releasing old patterns, finding calm, and moving toward clarity.
If you’re seeking a new approach to counseling that feels natural, grounding, and energizing, Walk & Talk Therapy may be exactly what you need.
Curious about trying Walk & Talk Therapy? Contact me today to learn more or schedule a session. Step into nature and discover how movement can bring peace, clarity, and growth.