"…Green Exercise was coined to signify the synergistic health benefits derived from being active in green or natural places (Pretty et al., 2005)”
Walk and talk therapy provides a unique therapeutic experience where you get your steps in, some fresh air and a renewed mindset. As we walk side-by-side there is no awkward eye contact to worry about. As you take each step, you will likely be able to begin to process your thoughts with more ease.
Nature is also a great setting to practice mindfulness techniques that will be applicable both during and outside of the sessions. Exercise and nature both have their unique benefits to mental health. Combined they are that much more powerful to improve mental well-being. This combination is often referred to in research as Green Exercise.
Walk and Talk Therapy Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Where does Walk and Talk Therapy take place?
I have selected a few public parks with mostly flat and paved paths across the city of Ottawa. Instead of having our typical virtual session, we will be out in nature for our session.
What if the weather is bad?
Depending on the severity of the weather, we may choose to proceed with our session if it is safe to do so or we could have a virtual session.
What pace do I need to be able to follow?
Your own! You set the pace and decide if and when we need to take a break.
Is Walk and Talk Therapy Confidential?
Due to the nature (pun intended) that the session is taking place in a public setting, I cannot guarantee the same level of confidentiality as we have in our virtual setting. That being said, we will do our best to keep our distance from others and have a plan in case we run into someone you know.
How do I get started?
First, you will need to book a Walk and Talk - VIRTUAL Intake Session to go over the risk and benefits of this type of therapy. We will come up with a plan in case we run into someone you know. This initial virtual session is really to set you up for a smooth Walk and Talk Therapy experience.
If we both agree to proceed with Walk and Talk Therapy. I will let you know where we will be meeting (based off of your location). After that, you will be able to book your subsequent sessions online assuming we meet at the same place each time.