Are you tired of sitting all day? Have you been in the office all day or in your car and another hour in an office just doesn’t sound helpful? We offer an alternative option to sitting and talking about change.. we can move forward – literally! Many clients find it easier to talk and reflect on their life while walking, or it’s simply more enjoyable than sitting in the office.
Walk & Talk sessions are just like office sessions, except that we are outside enjoying the outdoors and the benefits of physical movement. There is tons of research extolling the benefits of physical movement, not just for your physical health but also for your brain and mental health.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress, physical activity is one important aspect of your treatment. Our outdoor option allows you to get moving, take in natural light, and talk through your challenges all at once. This is not a cardio workout, but a slow placed stroll that will increase your heart rate.
A 45-minute walk may increase endorphins (the feel-good hormone). It activates all 5 senses and helps with Anxiety and Depression. Being in nature helps one be more meditative and grounded. More oxygen means more stimulation in the brain. Walking helps regulate breathing. Deep breathing helps with many conditions including but not limited to better focus and reduced stress and anxiety.
Benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy
Exercise in therapy has been shown to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Additional benefits include improved mood and sleep patterns; increases in self-esteem, energy, and focus; and greater creativity.
Different parts of the brain are accessed while walking, so it can help clients who have felt stuck with traditional therapy find new ways to think about their lives. The visual stimulation of a change in scenery allows the brain to adjust to new stimuli and can help with cognition and memory.
Sunlight- Exposure to sunlight aids in the body’s production of serotonin, a natural chemical, which impacts focus, feelings of well-being, and mood.
Physical activity- It’s no surprise that physical activity yields tremendous health benefits. For those experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, the physical activity allows the body to rid itself of adrenaline and cortisol, the stress hormones that can make us sick.
Real-world experiences- Imagine you’re walking the trail with your therapist and you encounter a bee buzzing nearby. You’re deathly afraid of bees, due to a rather traumatizing childhood experience. With your therapist there for support, you have a real-world opportunity to implement coping skills.
A less intimidating therapeutic experience- For many individuals, not having to look directly at the therapist creates a less intimidating dynamic. Being within a relaxing and neutral setting, with pleasant surroundings can make therapy more comfortable.
What IS Walk and Talk Therapy?
W&TT combines traditional talk therapy with the physical exercise of walking. While walking and getting the benefit of physical exercises, the client receives mental health therapy, a powerful two-in-one treatment. The simple act of walking while talking out life’s issues stimulates new thought processes and allows for new neuronal firings to take place and healing begin.
How does Walk and Talk Therapy work?
First, you will meet with me for an initial evaluation to determine if Walk and Talk Therapy is right for you. After the initial session, the following sessions may be held while walking around the secluded grounds of the Sinclair property, along a nature trail or Skaneateles Lake.
When is Walk and Talk Therapy beneficial?
The science of walking enhances the “happy” brain chemicals released through endorphins. Studies have shown that increasing physical activity can support the reduction of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many people also find that walking with their therapist supports building a healthy relationship with a balanced/healthy active lifestyle.
Is this a cardio workout or personal training?
No. The client sets the pace. The focus is on your processing, and not on exercise-although getting the blood moving connects the brain, and clients share that increasing movement in life is an added health benefit that they enjoy!
Can I switch back to the office if I find I don’t enjoy this? Or can we alternate from week to week?
Absolutely! It is completely your choice to take the session outdoors for a Walk and Talk session, or to remain inside the office if that’s what you prefer. I completely respect your choice and honor what feels best to you. There may also be times I advise we stay in office when the support that is needed is not best met during a walk.
Is there an additional cost for Walk and Talk therapy?
There is no additional cost; the fee you pay for your session is the same fee for Walk and Talk therapy.
What about my confidentiality?
If by chance we happen to run into someone you know, then I will follow your lead and will never compromise your confidentiality. It is up to you to acknowledge me as your therapist if you choose to do so; the choice is completely up to you. If someone I know says hello, my focus and support is on.
Inside or outside the office, I will always maintain your confidentiality and will not acknowledge you to anyone as my client without your signed permission. The general public is used to seeing people walking together every day, it is a part of our normal routine. We are simply two people walking and talking; there is nothing overt that states that this is a therapy session