Walk & Talk Therapy: A Different Way to Do Therapy
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Therapy often brings to mind a quiet office, a comfortable chair, and a calm conversation. But what if therapy could happen somewhere different—while walking outdoors? Walk & Talk Therapy offers a fresh approach that combines movement, nature, and conversation. This method can help some people feel more at ease and engaged in their mental health journey.
What Is Walk & Talk Therapy?
Walk & Talk Therapy is therapy conducted while walking outdoors instead of sitting in an office. The process remains intentional and focused, with the therapist guiding the conversation and supporting the client’s goals. The main difference is the setting: fresh air, natural surroundings, and physical movement replace the traditional indoor environment.
This approach is not meant to replace traditional therapy for everyone. Instead, it offers an alternative for those who find it easier to open up while moving or prefer a less formal setting. For some clients, walking side-by-side with their therapist reduces the pressure of face-to-face conversation and creates a more relaxed atmosphere.
Why Walking Can Help Mental Health
Walking during therapy sessions can influence the mind and body in several positive ways:
Movement loosens the mind
Physical activity helps reduce feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed. When the body moves, the mind often follows, making it easier to explore thoughts and emotions.
Nature improves mood
Spending time outdoors has been linked to better mood, reduced anxiety, and increased feelings of hope. Even brief exposure to natural settings can support emotional well-being.
Side-by-side conversation feels less intense
Talking while walking next to someone can feel less confrontational than sitting face-to-face. This can help clients share more openly without feeling scrutinized.
Research on walk-and-talk therapy and nature-based interventions shows promising results. Studies suggest this format may improve engagement, emotional regulation, and symptom relief for some people, especially those dealing with anxiety or depression.
Who Can Benefit from Walk & Talk Therapy?
Walk & Talk Therapy suits people who:
Feel uncomfortable or restless sitting still for long periods
Experience anxiety or tension in traditional therapy settings
Enjoy being outdoors and find nature calming
Prefer informal, conversational therapy styles
Want to combine physical activity with mental health work
It is not ideal for everyone. Some clients may need the privacy and structure of an office, or have mobility issues that make walking difficult. Therapists will assess whether this approach fits each client’s needs and goals.
What to Expect During a Walk & Talk Session
A typical session includes:
Choosing a safe, accessible walking route. We like the Thanksgiving Point Trailhead that walks along the Jordan River Trail. A quick five minutes from our Lehi office.
Setting clear goals and boundaries for the session
Maintaining confidentiality and privacy despite the outdoor setting
Using walking breaks to reflect, process, or shift topics
Ending with a summary and next steps, just like traditional therapy
Clients should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Sessions usually last the same amount of time as office visits, around 45 to 60 minutes.
Challenges and Considerations
Walk & Talk Therapy has many benefits but also some challenges:
Privacy concerns
Outdoor settings may have passersby, so sensitive topics might require extra care.
Weather and environment
Bad weather or unsafe paths can disrupt sessions.
Accessibility
Not everyone can walk comfortably or safely outdoors.
Clients and therapists should discuss these factors to ensure a positive experience.
The Growing Interest in Nature-Based Therapy
Walk & Talk Therapy is part of a larger movement toward nature-based mental health care. Research shows that spending time in green spaces can:
Lower stress hormones
Improve attention and focus
Boost feelings of calm and happiness
Programs that combine therapy with outdoor activities like gardening, hiking, or wilderness retreats are gaining popularity. Walk & Talk Therapy offers a simple, accessible way to bring these benefits into regular mental health care.
Why we’re offering it at Koru
At Koru Wellness, we believe good care should be grounded, thoughtful, and flexible enough to meet people where they are. For some clients, that means an office. For others, it may mean a trail, a sidewalk, or a quiet outdoor path. Walk & Talk Therapy gives us another way to support clients who want something more natural, more spacious, and sometimes simply easier.
Interested in trying Walk & Talk Therapy?
Walk & Talk Therapy is now available at Koru Wellness. If you have ever felt like traditional therapy settings were not quite the right fit, this may be worth considering. We’re happy to help you decide whether it makes sense for your goals, preferences, and clinical needs.
Reach out to schedule a consultation or learn more about whether Walk & Talk Therapy is right for you. Schedule a Free Consultation or Therapy Intake Here.
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