What is Walk and Talk Therapy?

After looking at all the research we cannot deny that movement and outdoor activity is a leading factor in overall wellbeing. So, we have created a new option to choose from that will be combining three key elements, Movement, Nature and Therapy.

These are counselling sessions that take place while we are walking and talking. One on one outdoor walks with a trained therapist.

The walk will be at a gentle pace to allow for conversation. There will be mindful moments in nature as we slow down and use the tools of mindfulness.

What does the Research Say?

After going down the rabbit hole of research we got pretty excited. The news is nothing but positive and having taken some beautiful, relaxing long walks in the RBGV on our trips to Australia, just remembering it evokes a peaceful, happy response.

Research on nature for health and wellbeing from the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria in Melbourne, Australia supports growing evidence of the benefits for mental wellbeing.

Additional articles:

Walk and Talk article on WEbMd

EcoPsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health, Yale Environment 360.

Mental Health Benefits of the Outdoors, Ontario Parks

Where?

Living in Niagara means we live in an area filled with natural beauty. Our goal is to start with one location for 2022 and to expand our offerings in 2023 to include both urban and nature trails.

Our first location will be the Millennium Trail in Niagara Falls. We will be using 4 season maintained trails for our sessions. The initial walks will be fairly flat, gentle strolls and we will graduate to offering more moderate level walks with varied landscapes in 2023.

Who can Participate?

For current clients please let me know you are interested and we can discuss, complete the new consent and get you booked for your walk and talk session.

For new clients we require one in office or virtual intake session to discuss and see if this is the right fit for you.

A separate Walk and Talk therapy consent form is required for this type of session.

Can I do Walk and Talk and in office or virtual sessions?

Absolutely, you are encouraged to choose whatever sessions work best for you. You may wish to do the Walk and Talk bi-weekly or once a month or maybe as a once in awhile or you just want to try it out.

These can be a great addition if you are feeling stuck and want some clarity. Movement in nature can often help and with a therapist there to facilitate, they can help with clearing and shifting focus.

When are these sessions offered?

These sessions are currently offered on Saturdays.

Cost?

The cost for sessions will remain the same whether in the office, virtually or outdoors.

$150 for a 50 minute session inclusive. Services provided by Registered Social Workers are HST exempt

This will be 50 active session minutes leaving the therapist 10 minutes at the end to complete administrative tasks and set our next appointment.

Contact us to get started

844-856-3263 or email kimberleygunning@yahoo.com

I’m really looking forward to sharing the benefits of therapy in nature.