Walk + Talk
Together we will join two of the best tools for wellness: walking in nature and a therapy session using research-backed modalities.
Walk + Talk therapy can help you:
- Cope with stress and depression
- Improve your mood
- Reduce your tension and anxiety
- Improve self-esteem and feelings of well being
On top of all of that, Walk + Talk therapy:
- Strengthens the mind-body connection
- Increases energy
- Improves sleep
Walk + Talk therapy may be right for you if…
- The idea of therapy is intimidating to you
- You’re stuck at home with a little one and aren’t crazy about the idea of hiring a babysitter,
- You’re the type of person who has their best ideas and motivation while on a walk or a run,
- You’re a bit of an efficiency aficionado and the idea of going to therapy while getting some steps in for the day sound like a good one
- You’re into research-based methods to boost your mood
Studies show that exercise has many benefits that contribute to wellness:
- Decreases depression and anxiety
- Enhances brain plasticity (this is a fancy term for your brain’s ability to learn new things)
- Increases your ability to regulate your emotions
- Improves sleep
At its core, Walk + Talk therapy is an individual therapy session, but many clients say the ability to get outside and get moving is an added bonus.
I also offer counseling in my office in Stapleton, online, or can offer support through group therapy and support groups. My goal is to make therapy accessible to you in the environment that’s right for you.
Walk + Talk FAQs:
How does Walk + Talk therapy work?
First, we’ll meet in my office in Stapleton for an initial intake, where we’ll get to know each other, talk about your concerns and goals, and determine if Walk + Talk therapy is right for you. After this initial in-office session, following sessions are held while walking the trails of Stapleton. If you’re interested in walking in a different location of Denver, we can talk about it.
What should I wear?
Whatever you’re comfortable in…especially good shoes for walking.
Let’s talk about the weather...
Denver’s weather can vary depending on the time of year and day…we will take this into consideration when scheduling. Ultimately, it is the your decision as a client if you would be more comfortable inside, in which case we can meet in my office or your home.
Can anyone use Walk + Talk Therapy?
For the most part, everyone can participate in Walk + Talk therapy as long as there are no medical reasons to prevent someone for 50 minutes of walking. Walk + Talk therapy is well suited for mothers with infants (baby is welcome to join us in a stroller or carrier). Nursing moms are welcome too as long as they are comfortable. Like any form of exercise, you should consult with a physician before starting.
When is Walk + Talk offered?
The time of day is your choice, based upon availability. Some clients love the idea of a Walk + Talk session before or after work, or on a lunch break. Some clients choose a time based on baby’s napping and feeding schedule. Ultimately, this service is designed to make therapy more accessible and convenient for you, so we will work together to find a time that works.
How much of a workout is this?
Above all else, Walk + Talk therapy’s emphasis is on the therapy, while walking outside is an added bonus with added health benefits. This isn’t a strenuous workout or personal training of any kind. We will walk at your pace.
What about confidentiality?
Psychotherapy is most effective when you can be open and honest, which is facilitated through confidentiality. I take your privacy very seriously; confidentiality will be protected a much as possible in a Walk + Talk session, however, I cannot guarantee that someone will not overhear us. If we happen to run into someone we know, we can adjust our route as necessary. It is my policy to not introduce clients and I allow my clients to make that decision for themselves as we exit the conversation quickly to protect confidentiality.
Are there situations where Walk+Talk isn’t ideal?
Yes. When processing trauma it is often best to do so in the safety and security of my office. Many clients like to alternate Walk+Talk sessions with in-office sessions for this reason. It should be noted that we cannot do EMDR during a Walk+Talk session and that some components of DBT or Post Induction Therapy also can’t be done during Walk+Talk sessions.
Where do we meet for a Walk + Talk session?
Walk + Talk sessions take place in the Central Park neighborhood. We meet at Maverick Pool at 8822 Beekman Place Denver 80238