The Healing Power of Walk & Talk Therapy: A New Path to Mental Wellness

Feb 7

What is Walk & Talk Therapy?

Walk & Talk Therapy is a dynamic approach to traditional talk therapy that takes place outdoors. Instead of sitting in an office, clients engage in therapy while walking alongside their therapist in a natural setting. This movement-based therapy encourages deep breathing, physical activity, and a connection with nature—all of which support mental well-being. Research has shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function (Bratman et al., 2015).

Why Walk & Talk Therapy Works

1. The Healing Power of Nature

Nature has an incredible ability to soothe the mind and body. According to Attention Restoration Theory (ART), developed by Kaplan & Kaplan (1989), natural environments help restore mental focus and reduce cognitive fatigue. The theory suggests that the effortless engagement with nature allows the brain to recover from mental exhaustion, improving attention and emotional well-being. Studies have found that walking in green spaces can lower stress levels and promote relaxation (Gladwell et al., 2012).

2. Movement as a Therapeutic Tool

Walking itself has significant psychological benefits. Physical activity releases endorphins, which help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression (Mikkelsen et al., 2017). Additionally, walking promotes bilateral stimulation, a process similar to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which aids in emotional processing (Propper & Christman, 2008). Research also shows that walking enhances creative thinking and problem-solving abilities (Oppezzo & Schwartz, 2014).

3. Breaking Down Barriers

For some individuals, traditional therapy settings may feel formal or intimidating. Walk & Talk Therapy removes these barriers by offering a more relaxed and natural setting. Walking side by side, rather than sitting face-to-face, can make it easier to open up and engage in deep conversations. This approach fosters a sense of collaboration between therapist and client, enhancing the therapeutic relationship (Revell & McLeod, 2017).

Who Can Benefit from Walk & Talk Therapy?

Walk & Talk Therapy is an excellent option for individuals experiencing:

Anxiety and Stress
Depression
ADHD
Grief and Loss
Life Transitions

It can also be beneficial for those who feel restless in traditional therapy sessions or prefer an active and engaging therapeutic experience.

The Benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy

Improved Focus and Attention: ART suggests that time in nature restores cognitive functioning (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989).
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Walking outdoors lowers cortisol levels, reducing stress and promoting relaxation (Gladwell et al., 2012).
Physical Health Benefits: Walking improves cardiovascular health and overall well-being (Lee et al., 2017).
Boosted Creativity and Problem-Solving: Walking enhances creative thinking (Oppezzo & Schwartz, 2014).

How to Get Started

If you’re interested in experiencing the benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy, finding the right therapist is key. At Inner Strength Counseling Services, I specialize in nature-based therapy, guiding clients through mindful movement in outdoor settings that promote healing. Each session is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring a comfortable and supportive experience.

Ready to take the first step? Let’s walk toward healing together.
https://calendly.com/diana-lapplcsw-innerstrengthcounselingservicesllc/free-consultation

References

Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., Hahn, K. S., Daily, G. C., & Gross, J. J. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(28), 8567-8572.

Gladwell, V. F., Brown, D. K., Wood, C., Sandercock, G. R., & Barton, J. L. (2012). The great outdoors: How a green exercise environment can benefit all. Extreme Physiology & Medicine, 1(1), 5.

Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. Cambridge University Press.

Lee, I., Shiroma, E. J., Lobelo, F., Puska, P., Blair, S. N., & Katzmarzyk, P. T. (2017). Effect of physical inactivity on major non-communicable diseases worldwide: An analysis of burden of disease and life expectancy. The Lancet, 380(9838), 219-229.

Mikkelsen, K., Stojanovska, L., Polenakovic, M., Bosevski, M., & Apostolopoulos, V. (2017). Exercise and mental health. Maturitas, 106, 48-56.

Oppezzo, M., & Schwartz, D. L. (2014). Give your ideas some legs: The positive effect of walking on creative thinking. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 40(4), 1142.

Propper, R. E., & Christman, S. D. (2008). Interhemispheric interaction and saccadic horizontal eye movements: Implications for episodic memory, EMDR, and PTSD. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 2(4), 269-281.

Revell, S., & McLeod, J. (2017). Experiences of therapists who integrate walk and talk into their professional practice. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research, 17(4), 283-291.

Sharma, A., Madaan, V., & Petty, F. D. (2006). Exercise for mental health. Primary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 8(2), 106.

Diana Lapp, LCSW

My name is Diana Lapp and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. I work with children and adolescents ranging from the ages of 11-18 years old who struggle with anxiety, depression, family and school conflicts as well as, transitioning into adulthood. I also support adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and life stressors. I assist both populations in learning coping skills to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

https://www.innerstrengthcounselingservicesllc.com/