Walk and Talk Therapy: Benefits, How it Works & If it's Right for You.

Sometimes it’s easier to talk when we’re moving. Walk and talk therapy brings the session outdoors, to a park, a trail, or a quiet path where conversation and gentle movement unfold side by side. Instead of sitting face to face, we walk together, letting the natural rhythm of our steps open space for reflection, calm, and connection.

Imagine this: instead of being stuck in an office, we head out to a park, a beautiful trail, or a peaceful path in nature. Changing up the scenery can feel really freeing, letting our conversation and easy movement flow together naturally.

Why Walk and Talk Therapy is Great for Your Mind

Walking is a great way to get your body moving, which in turn helps your brain work better and keeps your emotions in check. When you walk, you're not just getting some exercise; you're also letting your feelings flow more freely. Moving around helps you think more clearly and feel more balanced. When you're out for a walk, it's often easier to chat about things, especially the tough parts, because you're looking ahead instead of making eye contact. Being outside can also make you feel more relaxed and free, opening up your mind so that things that felt stuck can start to shift. It's less about hitting the gym and more about finding a natural way to feel better.

Being present in nature ccan help bring calmness and clarity for your mental health

Nature as Co-Therapist

There's something really calming about being around trees, the sky, and fresh air. Nature helps us slow down and be in the moment. It also reminds us that growth takes time, seasons change, healing happens, and we don’t have to rush things. In walk and talk sessions, I often see my clients breathing more deeply, talking more openly, and leaving feeling grounded, like the scenery itself helped with some of the work.

“It is often easier to talk honestly with someone while walking because eye contact can be bothersome at times." -  Bricklin, M., & Smith, S.C. (1996). Fix your head with walking. Prevention, 48(5), 1-3. 

They leave feeling grounded, as if the landscape itself helped carry part of the work. Walking, along with the peaceful surroundings, creates a special therapeutic vibe where insights come more easily and burdens feel lighter. This connection to nature not only boosts our conversations but also reinforces the idea that healing is a journey enriched by the world around us, reminding us that we’re never truly alone in our struggles.

Walk and talk therapy offers a new way of connecting with your therapist.

When It's a Good Fit

Walk and talk therapy can be helpful if you:

• Feel restless or find it hard to sit still in traditional sessions

• Feel “stuck” in thought loops or burnout

• Are navigating grief, anxiety, or life transitions

• Simply want to connect with yourself and your surroundings in a new way

It's good to keep in mind that walk and talk therapy might not be the best fit for everyone. If you're worried about privacy, being out in public could be a bit awkward. If you have mobility issues, this type of therapy might be difficult to do as well. But no worries, we can chat about what's comfortable and safe for you. Your comfort and well-being are what matter most, and we can work together to find the best therapy options that suit your needs and preferences. To learn more about if walk and talk therapy is for you, book a free consultation here.

You decide how much you want to walk during your session, sitting on a bench for a break is a great option!

“Offers moments of reflection and perspective that may not occur within the confines of the therapy room.” - Dr. Michele Kinderman

What a Session Looks Like

We'll pick a local path or park that feels private and easy to get to. Our sessions will be just as long as the virtual sessions, with the same focus on keeping things confidential and emotionally safe. We'll keep things slow and conversational, letting you set the pace. If you want, we can stop to sit, breathe, or jot down notes at the end to capture what came up.

These breaks can be great chances to think about what we talked about, helping to lock in any insights and emotions that surfaced during our time together. By adding these practices, we can make your experience even better, making sure you leave each session feeling grounded and more in touch with your thoughts and feelings. Learn more about walk and talk therapy with Savannah and to see available locations.

Walk Towards Clarity

Walk and talk therapy is more than just a therapy method; it's a unique way to give your thoughts and feelings the room they need to come out naturally. It's not about rushing to find quick solutions. Instead, this approach lets you reflect while enjoying the calming rhythm of walking. The gentle movement is great for your body and helps clear your mind, making it easier to dive into your emotions and experiences.

As we walk together, the surroundings can spark conversation, turning a simple walk into a meaningful journey of self-discovery and healing. If you're curious about trying this approach, I'd love to join you on this adventure. We can pick a place that suits you, with plenty of room for silence or reflection when needed. Whether it's a peaceful park, a lively city trail, or a quiet nature path, choosing a setting you like can really boost the experience.

Hi, I'm Savannah!

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Expressive Arts Therapist & Artist

I work with queer, neurodivergent adults experiencing chronic illness and pain, anxiety, stress, burn out, grief and loss, relationship and identity challenges. I would love to connect with you and find out how expressive arts therapy can support your in your wellness journey! Book a free consultation here