Walk-&-Talk Therapy: FAQ
I get a lot of questions about Walk-&-Talk Therapy, so I want to take some time and answer as many as I can here. Walk-&-Talk therapy is basically as it sounds-- instead of meeting in an office we meet in a semi-public area for counseling sessions and have the option for gentle movement, via walking, while we meet.
Why Walk-&-Talk Therapy?
Research shows there are tons of benefits being outdoors and gentle body movement, both for emotional and physical health. With walk-&-talk, you are getting both of those things plus a therapeutic experience and emotional or mental health support.
Is it private?
This is usually the first question I get. Because we meet in a semi-public location, the question about privacy is very valid. I believe the answer is yes. I take precautions and do my best to ensure that my clients have a private experience even though we are not in a private office. If we are walking, I will help assess the situations and keep a safe distance from others to avoid overhearing (if anyone is even around). If we are sitting, I ensure that we are in a location that is away from others and allows for privacy. In the very beginning of a first session I address any concerns a client may have and provide options for individual comfort. If at any point during a session a client feels that privacy is a concern, we will pause, reassess, and adjust as we need to. Your privacy is important, and something I take very seriously.
Where do we meet?
I like to provide a few options. In Woodland Park, I either meet clients at Memorial Park or the small sitting/walking area at the intersection of Hwy 24 and Hwy 67. Both are easily accessible and offer privacy, easy walking paths, and sunshine. It should be noted that Memorial Park has an accessible restroom, while the secondary location does not.
In Colorado Springs, I meet clients at Red Rocks Open Space. We meet at the trail entrance on the west-end parking lot (the newer one). This entrance provides options for flat, open walking or slightly more elevated walks.
Will you come to my home or neighborhood?
No. For both logistical and safety reasons, I do not go to client's homes.
Can I bring my child/children?
Of course! In fact, it can be a great way to get a baby or child out for some outdoor time and play. Before or after our session, I usually encourage a little individual parent/child play time. While we will discuss individual circumstances, and your therapeutic experience and the safety of everyone is always top priority, here is my approach. If your child is younger than three years old, I encourage bringing a stroller if you want to walk, and a blanket and a few toys if you want to sit. For children three or older, we can sit in a (still private) area with full visibility of a play area so that your child can play while we meet. This is completely parent preference, so your comfort level here is of utmost importance. While I can help assess the needs of you and your child/children, I will not tell you what you have to do unless I have concerns for the safety of anyone involved. However, I take very careful consideration regarding meeting with you therapeutically with a child three or older within hearing range. I usually will try and help find an alternative approach that allows for your privacy. My reason for this is that I want you to have a space to be open and honest in whatever we are working on, and children around that age are very aware of what is going on even if they don't yet have the communication skills to articulate it.
I want therapy to be accessible to everyone and do not want a lack of child care to keep anyone from getting they support they need. If you are wondering how to navigate Walk-&-Talk Thearpy with your children or your specific situation, contact me to discuss and we can decide if it is a safe and reasonable option for you.
What if I don't want to walk?
No problem! While walking is an option, it is not a requirement. I will always bring chairs (which allows moving if needed, which it rarely is-- unless the sun gets too warm or the shade gets too cool) so walking is completely up to you. Some clients like to walk. Some don't want to. Others want to walk part of the time and sit part of the time. Whatever you feel like doing that day is what we will do.
Is it an exercise program?
No. No. No. While walking is a form of exercise, Walk-&-Talk Therapy is not done for diet, exercise, or weight-loss purposes. I try to clarify this on my website and with anyone interested. I do not guarantee any specific physical outcomes (such as weight-loss) and do not believe that the intention of Walk-&-Talk Therapy should be for that purpose.
What if I see someone I know?
I will never introduce myself to anyone you know (or I know) as your counselor, therapist, or helper. If you see someone you know you can acknowledge that person if you chose. Or not. That's up to you. If you are comfortable sharing who I am, you can do that. If you aren't, then I am just an acquaintance of yours out for a walk. It can be as simple as that. Usually a wave and "hello" is sufficient, and we move on. Honestly, I have yet to have this happen, but always want my clients to know how it will be handled if it does.
What do we do if the weather is bad?
My threshold for meeting outside is 35 degrees, if it is sunny. One of the many beautiful things about Colorado is the amount of sunshine we get and the ability to be outside when it is cool. If it is sunny outside and at least 35 degrees, we can meet outside-- pending the ground is clear enough to walk or sit. Because safety is a major priority, I am pretty conservative about walking if there is any snow or ice on the paths. If it is snowing, raining, or below 35 degrees, then we usually just transition to a video or telehealth appointment for that session. If you feel that the weather is not conducive to you wanting to be outdoors for any reason, just let me know and we can adjust as needed.
While I completely understand that outdoor counseling or Walk-&-Talk Therapy may not be for everyone, I do believe it can be great for most. In my experience, once clients see and experience how it works they really love it. If it is not for you, that is absolutely ok! If you have any questions or concerns about how it might apply to your individual needs or circumstance, please reach out and we can discuss. I offer a free 15-minute consultation for Colorado residents. I specialize in issues related to maternal wellness, parenting, and relationships. Walk-&-Talk Therapy is available in Woodland Park and Colorado Springs. I also provide online therapy throughout Colorado.
