Incorporating the benefits of nature and the outdoors with counselling.
Work side by side within nature in Langtons Gardens rather than in a counselling room.
I have the opportunity to offer my clients walk and talk counselling.
I am able to offer this service, my office at Fairkytes is less than a 2 minute walk from Langtons Gardens. Langtons is very popular and well-loved historical garden located in the middle of Hornchurch. With mature trees and a lake with areas to sit, relax and unwind.
In outdoor spaces difficult feelings may feel less intense, more manageable and easier to be with.
The reason that I offer this to my clients is some people feel more comfortable walking and talking. It can be easier to start discussing problems when strolling along side by side rather than sitting within a room. I am happy for you to set the pace of the walk, if you want to meander along, or have a relaxing walk that is fine. Equally we can set a quicker pace if that’s what you feel comfortable with.
The footpaths are easy and flat to walk and are set within beautiful gardens. For some people being surrounded by nature can feel relaxing and reassuring. We can stop and sit at a bench we can continue talking and be part of the nature surrounding us.
Some clients find it easier to start talking about what’s troubling them while walking in a park or strolling down a path.
I have found walking and talking therapy effective with people of all ages. It is as an alternative to being in my counselling room, as they have a sense of freedom. You may feel more able to unburden yourself. Just being connected to the outside world can be beneficial. Walking and talking can help with numerous problems, not just depression and anxiety but loss and grief, or any kind of difficult life issues you may be facing.
There are numerous benefits to walk and talk therapy including helping to release tensions, reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. Walk and talk can also be helpful for clients who are feeling they are trapped by their life circumstances. Being outdoors while talking about these issues can help renew of a sense of freedom. It can also help to stimulate new thoughts and ideas.
An important thing to consider
We have to consider before doing Walk and Talk therapy. We are little more “exposed” than doing therapy in the counselling room. There’s a chance that people may overhear us talking, or that we’ll be spotted somewhere together. You might run into someone you know, or someone I know who doesn’t realize that we’re working. We will talk about how you want to handle these things if they do happen. Confidentiality is an important part of the counselling process, so it’s entirely up to you if you’re comfortable with this. We can talk more about it together so that you can make the best possible choice for yourself.
As our wonderful British weather, can be very changeable. Just like life, the weather can be unpredictable. It’s important that you dress appropriately outdoor counselling sessions and have suitable footwear. My office is nearby if the weather is too bad for a walk and talk session.
Sessions are 50 minutes and during this time we will walk, amble, or sit on a bench. It’s about what feels most comfortable to you.
Contact me to find out more information about walk and talk and if it is suitable for us to do.