Walk and Talk - What is it, what are the benefits?

I first introduced "Walk and Talk Therapy" when I was working in a highschool in Melbourne and the "wellbeing rooms" didn't meet the new covid 19 regulations. The feedback from the students was amazing - they usually expressed feeling significantly lighter after the session, explaining that they felt safer and somehow dived deeper into their experience which gave them clarity about the situation they were challenged by. They expressed surprise at how much more connected to their feelings and emotions they were and how much easier they found it to communicate them with me. Once the covid restrictions were lifted they requested Walk and Talk as they didn't want to go back to sitting on a lounge talking.

Then I worked for an indigenous organisation and of course it was a culturally acceptable way to hold therapy sessions. We would often take our shoes off and stand on country during sessions, or incorporate exercise goals - walk 4 laps of an oval, perhaps we walked by the water where there was more wildlife to feel more connected to nature, with children I was often finding myself on playground equipment. There is something really comforting and supporting about being in nature - it adds another layer to therapy. Nature is therapy as they say. So, Walk and Talk - What is it, what are the benefits?

There is a movement called - Green Prescriptions - where Doctors from around the world are prescribing time in nature for healing. The World Health Organisation have stated that Nature is our Greatest Source of Health and Well-Being so it makes sense to me that we should consider Walk and Talk Therapy as a great way to engage in counselling. Walking is linked to the increase of mood regulating neurotransmitters; serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve our mood and self-esteem. Mood and emotional regulation are an important ingredient in counselling, improving our capacity to connect, trust and build relationships. While aiding you to connect safely to your concerns and with me as your therapist, walk and talk adds the benefit of physical movement which we know also leads to improved wellbeing and overall health.

Of course we will need to set expectations and boundaries, be aware of our surroundings and prepared for being in the elements of Nature - we all know Melbourne is known for having sudden and unexpected changes in weather at short notice. I think Walk and Talk is a great way of healing and processing that fits perfectly with the modality of counselling. I offer Walk and Talk in the CBD of Melbourne, perhaps you have a green space near your home or office, or maybe you are keen to commute into the CBD for an in person session. Please reach out to discuss where you would like to hold your Walk and Talk session so we can start the healing journey together. And of course if we usually connect via phone or online and you find yourself in Melbourne, reach out as a one off Walk and Talk my be just what you need when you visit the wonderful and vibrant Melbourne.

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