Walk-and-Talk Counselling

© Georgia O'Keeffe

Walk-and-talk therapy, also called outdoor therapy, refers to talking therapy sessions that occur outside while the client is moving.

Possible benefits of walk and talk therapy.

Walk-and-talk counselling can be an especially helpful method for people who don't have the opportunity to get out into nature very often and for those who thrive better when they do. Having therapeutic conversations outdoors, either while walking, sitting, or a mixture of both, can add a different and positive dynamic to the experience.

Of course, online counselling still has a place for many clients. However, as the choice of how sessions take place must always be made by the client, it’s essential to outline the pros and cons of walk-and-talk counselling and consider which option is best for you.

Outdoor counselling is good for those who may feel a little anxious or claustrophobic in a one-on-one session online. It removes the potential intensity of eye contact for those who find it an uncomfortable part of therapeutic work.
When we move our bodies and shift our environment, we can think differently about aspects of our lives that have previously seemed immovable. Being outdoors might be a physically more relaxing experience for our bodies; therefore, our minds might be freer to open up.
Working therapeutically outdoors might help with feelings of being “stuck” as we are moving forward physically in the sessions, and there is a sense of looking forward to the changes that clients want from therapy.
Being outside releases endorphins and is generally mood-enhancing.
Walking together also means a sense of equality and union in the therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor.

Working outside can be especially helpful for people who don't have the opportunity to get out very often, and for those who feel as if they thrive better when they do.

Are there any drawbacks to walk-and-talk therapy?

Some clients may find walk-and-talk therapy too strenuous and exhausting. Some people also find the outdoor environment (including encountering other people, dogs, wasps, noises, etc.) distracting or overwhelming during therapy sessions.

Walk and talk therapy: FAQs

What about the weather?

I am happy to talk in any weather, but let me know if you prefer not to. If it is too hot or raining, I may be able to suggest an alternative.

What about confidentiality?

I offer walk-and-talk therapy in a private garden and a botanical garden. Occasionally, I can suggest a walk throughout the city. To maintain confidentiality boundaries, I recommend using a codeword or phrase to pause the conversation until you are alone again.

What about boundaries?

Although the physical boundaries differ, the client and I must remember that we are still in a therapeutic relationship. Even though we are outside, the working contract is still present and valid. Professional boundaries are essential for emotional safety and integrity, which will be explained in the first session as though the session were indoors.

What if I’m not used to walking?

I will walk as quickly or slowly as feels comfortable for you. You may decide to take a pause at a nearby bench or walk throughout. It's totally up to you, the client.

Can I offer walk-and-talk therapy to any client?

I am unable to offer walk-and-talk therapy with people requiring additional mobility needs and some medical conditions.

Walk and Talk Counselling Contract Form

I, _________________________________, have requested Walk-and-Talk counselling (a session that takes place outside of Zoom while walking with my counsellor ) as part of my counselling process. I understand that I may request that my session occur on Zoom at any point.

By signing this form, I further agree to the following:

Location: Queen St Garden, Edinburgh Royal Botanical Garden, or a previously and thoroughly discussed route in Edinburgh New Town.

I agree that I am responsible for setting the walking pace of the walk and talk session.
I understand this is not exercise or workout training, and while the movement may benefit me physically, the focus is not on exercise.
I agree to communicate with my counsellor if I am uncomfortable physically or emotionally while participating in walk-and-talk counselling.
I take full responsibility for my medical and physical well-being. I will not hold Irene M C Soldavini legally or financially responsible for any medical conditions or accidents arising from walk-and-talk counselling.
I agree to seek a doctor’s approval before beginning walk-and-talk counselling if appropriate.
If I have any medical conditions that would be detrimental to walk-and-talk counselling. I agree to disclose this and understand that my counsellor may not be able to offer walk-and-talk counselling as an option.
If my counsellor becomes ill or has an accident, their next of kin information is in their pocket.
We will move past any potentially threatening groups, avoiding eye contact.
The counsellor will carry an attack alarm and use it if needed.
Both the counsellor and client have their mobile phone to hand if needed.
I understand that if my counsellor and I come into contact with a person that I know, I have the right to disclose or not to disclose that I am in a therapy session. I understand that my counsellor will follow my lead should we come into contact with someone I know and will make every effort to preserve client confidentiality and privacy while conducting my walk/talk counselling session.
I understand that if my counsellor should come into contact with a person they know, my therapist will not acknowledge me as a client in the walk-and-talk counselling to preserve confidentiality.
If the weather is bad the therapy will take place on ZOOM.
I agree that I have had all the questions answered by my counsellor.
I understand and agree to the above regarding Walk-and-Talk Counselling:

Client's signature :

Client's printed name:

Date :

Counsellor's signature: