Walk-Talk Therapy
Tele-therapy grew in popularity during and after the pandemic. As we are getting back into more community spaces, walk talk therapy is coming back as a non-traditional therapy service.
Walk-talk therapy is not offered by every therapist, but it has been shown to be effective with decreases many mental health symptoms. The umbrella term for this type of service is called Ecotherapy- which hosts an array of skills and services to support peoples wellness journeys.
Walking has been proven to be impactful on our mental & physiological health. Prince-Llewellyn & McCarthy (2024) did a small study which concluded, “participants found the natural, calming effect of the outdoors, combined with the movement of walking, facilitated a sense of freedom to express themselves and, in doing so, maximize the benefits of the therapeutic space”.
While walk-talk therapy is not for every person, it is a great way to work on therapy skills for specific wellness goals.
Social anxiety- getting outside with your therapist can help discover ways to build coping skills and de-escalation tools in real time. Additionally, being around other people (not interacting necessarily) can also help build self esteem and a foundation of self security while being with a trusted person.
PTSD- many people with PTSD symptoms struggle with social interactions. Walk talk therapy can help build a sense of trust with your environment, support changes in social anxiousness, and learn skills to remain in the present to combat flashbacks.
Depression- a big hurdle with depression symptoms is simply- beginning. Going outside and talking with your therapist can support that barrier of beginning. Additionally, starting the habit of walk-talk therapy to transition to walks in your personal routine can also support changes in depression symptoms. Other symptoms such as anxiousness, social anxiety, self esteem building, and more can also be impacted by walk talk therapy.
ADHD- some symptoms such as difficulty regulating attentions, focus, social anxiousness, sensory differences, and more can be worked on during walk talk therapy. Being present, in the moment with specific skills and a supportive clinician can allow you to work on support tools to take home.
Haven’t heard enough? Check out our walk talk therapy openings in person at our Downtown Puyallup office!
