Walking Therapy

What Is Walking Therapy?

Walking therapy, also frequently referred to as walk-and-talk therapy, is an increasingly more popular therapeutic practice that combines evidence-based psychotherapeutic practices with physical movement, often in natural settings such as an outdoor walking trail.

Is Walking Therapy Right for Me?

Ever wanted to try therapy but can’t get over the mental image of lying on a cold, leather couch while being asked about your feelings? Perhaps you can’t stand the idea of spending an hour metaphorically tied to a chair while the focus is solely on you. Sitting across from a therapist can be intimidating, anxiety-inducing, or downright boring to some people; by taking traditional talk therapy on the move, clients see equal. or even greater positive outcomes than they might in a clinical office setting.

What Makes Walking Therapy Effective?

The restorative and therapeutic nature of physical activity as well as nature exposure have been independently documented over thousands of years. Many of us agree that outdoor experiences can be therapeutic on their own, but what sets walking therapy apart is that it marries ethical, evidence-based psychotherapy from a licensed professional with the physiological, psychological and social outcomes resulting from nature exposure.

How Can I Start Walking Therapy?

To find out if you’re a good candidate for walking therapy, schedule a consultation with Kelley. You will receive a copy of walking therapy consents, potential locations, and available session times as well as have the opportunity to ask questions about whether or not walking therapy is the right fit for you.

Walking therapy at The Feelings Healers is offered by Kelley Walters, LPC Associate supervised by Heather Murphy, LPC-S. Kelley works from a collaborative, anti-oppressive approach with adolescents and adults. Whether you already know what you need help with or can’t see beyond the wall of shame, doubt, or stress, she’s here for your life’s ugly spots, transitions, and successes.

See you on the trails!

Let’s build something great together.

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