In the hustle and bustle of life in 2024, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound benefits of walking and talking. As a therapy practice in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, we began offering Walk + Talk therapy several years ago as we’ve always appreciated and recognized the therapeutic power of combining movement with conversation. The industry seems to be catching on as the NY Times recently published an article talking about Why Therapists are Trading the Couch for the Great Outdoors. Read on to learn from a licensed clinical social worker why walking and talking can be incredibly beneficial for your mental well-being.
Nature Can Reduce Stress & Anxiety
It’s no secret that Scottsdale’s desert landscape provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor therapy sessions. Walking amidst nature can have a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and anxiety. Our fresh air and sunlight can uplift your mood and increase feelings of well-being. As we stroll along the scenic Scottsdale Waterfront, clients often find themselves more open to introspection and self-reflection.
Physical Exercise for Mental Health
Study after study has shown that regular physical activity, such as walking, can have profound effects on mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. On top of releasing those feel-good hormones, engaging in physical activity promotes better sleep, increases energy levels, and enhances cognitive function. By incorporating walking into therapy sessions, clients can experience these benefits firsthand while engaging in meaningful conversation.
Be More Comfortable with Being More Vulnerable
Walking side-by-side creates a more relaxed and informal atmosphere compared to traditional face-to-face therapy settings. This can make it easier for clients to open up and express themselves freely. Many individuals find it less intimidating to talk while walking, as the movement helps to dissipate nervous energy and tension. As therapists, we do our absolute best and are trained to help make you feel comfortable in the office and out of it, but we’re all still human and the absence of direct eye contact while walking can reduce feelings of self-consciousness and create a sense of safety and trust between a client and their therapist.
Increased Mindfulness
Walking encourages mindfulness, the practice of being present in the moment without judgment. As we focus on the sensations of our surroundings—the rustling of leaves, the warmth of the sun on our skin, or even other people walking by going about their everyday business—we naturally become more grounded and centered. This mindful awareness can help to quiet the incessant chatter of the mind, providing a welcome respite from worries and ruminations that can be brought on by things like burnout, OCD, or a recent trauma. By incorporating mindfulness techniques into our walks, we can cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and resilience.
Build a Stronger Therapeutic Alliance
Walking and talking allow for a more dynamic and fluid exchange between therapist and client. As we navigate the terrain together, we may encounter symbolic obstacles or landmarks that mirror the client’s inner journey. These moments of metaphorical resonance can deepen the therapeutic process and foster insight and growth. By sharing the experience of walking side by side, therapist and client can develop a stronger bond built on mutual trust and understanding.
Let’s Get Moving with Walk + Talk Therapy in Scottsdale
Walk + Talk Therapy offers a holistic approach to mental health therapy that integrates physical activity, nature, communication, mindfulness, and therapeutic alliance. As a mental health therapist in Scottsdale, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative effects of this approach on my clients’ well-being. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or simply seeking greater clarity and balance in your life, consider taking a step outside and embarking on a journey of healing and self-discovery.
While the weather is cool here in the Phoenix area, we’re now accepting clients for our Walk + Talk Therapy. We have both individual and group therapy options available, depending on your preference.
