Walk & Talk Therapy

Walk and talk therapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates the benefits of traditional talk therapy with movement. We understand that walking is beneficial for overall health, and more recently, the research suggests significant benefits for mental health and the enhancement of healing. The combination of nature, movement, and talk therapy can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety and improve energy, focus, confidence, self-regulation, and wellness.

Individual sessions are held all year round and in the surrounding neighborhood to our office. To protect your privacy and confidentiality, your therapist will dress in comfortable clothing to reduce attention to the session. Your therapist will also walk at your pace and maintain eye contact for your comfort. We ask that you understand the limitations of confidentiality and will do our best to protect your privacy, while in a public setting.

How do I get physical help with mental health?

Movement, such as walking, promotes the release certain neurotransmitters, or “feel good” chemicals in the brain. It also increases body temperature, regulates breathing, and reduces cortisol, which is shown to have a calming effect on the brain and body. Regular walking or other forms of moderate exercise can therefore help to alleviate depression and anxiety, while decreasing blood pressure and breathing to help reduce stress and regulate your nervous system.

By helping to release negative emotions and overall stress, walking helps promote mental clarity and a positive mindset. It can also improve self-esteem, energy levels, sleep quality, and connection to self, others, and environment.

Is Walk & Talk Therapy right for you?

Walk and talk therapy is best suited for certain populations and conditions, such as teens and adults having difficulty with ADHD, depression, anger, anxiety, stress, burnout, insomnia, or trauma. It is also beneficial for those who struggle with making eye contact or who may feel uncomfortable sitting in an office setting.

Even though walk and talk sessions are held in every season, you have the option of having your session, in our East Grand Rapids office, or even online during inclement weather, although some clients may choose to go out even on the worse days because they’ve built up consistency and resiliency, which are positive side effects and goals of walk and talk therapy.

Are you ready to take your first steps today?