Walk and Talk

Experience the benefits of the natural world

at your pace

 in an environment that works for you.

Talking to a counsellor outside the confines of the therapy room brings huge benefits and suits many clients better than the traditional forms of therapy, which may feel too intense or challenging. Not only does it offer a gentler introduction to speaking about yourself, the very act of being outside in a natural setting brings enormous benefits.

We have always known that “a breath of fresh air”, a calming walk or listening to birds improves our mood but it is only in the last few decades that scientists have begun to study this with rigour. The results are both astonishing and conclusive – the natural world is a prescription that can boost both mental and physical health.

For example spending time outside and interacting with nature:

• Reduces stress
• Makes us happier
• Improves sleep
• Improves symptoms of depression
• Improves cognitive functioning
• Improves creativity
• Listening to natural sounds (birdsong, wind, water) reduces cortisol levels (linked to the experience of stress) and improves mood and mental alertness.

Walk and talk counselling is simply as it sounds – the opportunity to engage in talking therapy while walking side by side with your counsellor. It offers the same levels of confidentiality and support but in a natural setting such as a park or open space. It does not require any particular levels of fitness and is not a fitness session. If you like walking and are comfortable with that we will walk at your own pace. If you want to experience the benefits of being in nature without walking we can also find a suitable place to sit to speak. Either way, you will experience the same sense of being heard and understood as in indoor therapy, alongside the powerful experience of being in the natural world. Many clients find this way of working less intimidating and more liberating. Some use it as an introduction before transferring to seated, indoor counselling.

The aim of this form of therapy is not only an improvement in mood, understanding, health and well-being,  but also, through the use of exercises and experiential activities such as mindfulness, to develop a new relationship with the natural world that will continue to bring benefits throughout your life.

Registered and insured member of the BACP, the lead accreditation organisation widely recognised by General Practitioners, the NHS, and private healthcare providers.