Walk & Talk Therapy
Therapy is meant to be a space where each individual feels at home, comfortable and can have their needs met. For some clients the preference is to heal and process within the walls of a therapy office, underneath a blanket with a fidget toy in hand. Other clients have a desire to heal and process outdoors. Walk & Talk Therapy takes sessions outside, which allows us to combine movement and deep conversation while existing among nature.
Cue birds chirping and the feel of sun on our skin ☀
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Connecting with nature allows for us to notice what is happening within and mindfully engage in certain practices, which assists us in creating deeper connection to our self.
Strengthening the therapeutic relationship as Walk & Talk therapy creates an actual shared experience of walking alongside someone while discussing stressors, fears, and insecurities.
Expanding perspective and a shift in mindset through the change of scenery. Being outside can create space for different reflections that may not occur within a space that one is intimately familiar with.
Movement is incredibly important for our physical being and our mental health. Movement stirs up endorphins, which helps to regulate our mood and promote a safe nervous system.
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Walk & Talk therapy is a suitable for those wanting a change of pace from a traditional office visit, feel more comfortable talking while side by side, or are wanting to reconnect with their body and nature.
I encourage anyone interested in this form of therapy to check in with your body. Mobility issues, injuries, chronic pain and other medical concerns can make this type of session uncomfortable.
If you are unsure if Walk & Talk Therapy would be suitable for you please discuss with Be Counseling in order to determine safety and health.
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Some clients enjoy moving throughout the entire session at a pace that is comfortable for them, while others enjoy incorporating breaks and having time to sit at benches or park tables.
The key and most important piece is that we will be doing what feels most supportive, conducive, and right for you.
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Confidentiality is a top priority and every effort to uphold confidentiality will occur, however, it is important to acknowledge that therapy sessions held outdoors may be subject to limitations in maintaining absolute privacy. Factors such as external visibility, surrounding noise, and the presence of others in the vicinity could potentially compromise the confidentiality of our discussions.
Together, we can create a game plan about how to be mindful of issues related to privacy such as incorporating intentional pauses during speech, shifting topic or change direction.
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Walk & Talk therapy sessions typically occur on Friday’s and some select mornings pending availability.
Some of the areas I hold Walk and Talk Therapy sessions include:
Christine Allen Nature Park in Montgomery, Texas
Burroughs Park in Tomball, Texas
Fairfield Twin Ponds in Cypress, Texas
Memorial Loop in Houston, Texas -
Wear shoes and pieces of clothing that are comfortable for you to move in.
Depending on the season, you may also want to bring sunglasses, a hat, bug spray and a bottle of water.
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Great question - Especially being in Texas!
Since Walk & Talk Therapy sessions occur outside it is important to consider weather conditions such as heat, rain and storms. In the event that severe weather is forecasted, it may be necessary to switch the session to Telehealth or have session in-person at Be Counseling.
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For new clients you will need to schedule an initial session, which can happen virtually or in office at Be Counseling. The initial session helps to determine best fit and whether Walk & Talk therapy is appropriate.
For returning clients you can schedule a Walk & Talk therapy session by reaching out via text or email or scheduling in session.
Walk & Talk therapy sessions typically occur on Friday’s and some select mornings pending availability.
Still unsure? Check out Be Counseling's most recent blog, which discusses the various benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy.
See you on the trails 🌻