Walk and Talk Therapy

What Is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and Talk Therapy is a mindfulness-based, body-oriented therapy that invites you to process your experiences outdoors, walking side by side with your therapist rather than sitting in an office.

Walking can help some clients:

  • Relax more easily

  • Reduce rumination

  • Release physical tension

  • Breathe deeply

  • Gain new mind-body insights

This therapy offers a natural setting that may help you open up in a way that feels more comfortable and freeing.

Please note: Walk and Talk Therapy is not a workout or fitness session.
We are not your personal trainer — we are your therapist, simply meeting you in an outdoor, nature-based environment.

Why Movement Matters

Research consistently shows that physical movement, sunlight, and time in nature can positively impact mental well-being. Movement can help:

  • Boost mood and “feel-good” brain chemicals

  • Reduce anxiety and depression symptoms

  • Provide a new perspective on life’s challenges

Even gentle walking, paired with therapeutic conversation, can support your mental health.

What to Expect

We meet at our office, located in the Terra Café building in Morgantown, adjacent to the Edith Barill Riverfront Park and the Morgantown Rail-Trail.

At your scheduled session time, we will walk side by side and talk about what’s on your mind, just as we would in a traditional therapy room — focusing on your goals, thoughts, and feelings.

How It Works

  • Pace: You set the pace — whether it’s slow and reflective or more active.

  • Initial intake required: Before starting Walk and Talk sessions, you’ll complete an intake appointment (in-office or via telehealth) where we will:

    • Discuss your therapy goals

    • Review potential risks and benefits

    • Decide together if Walk and Talk Therapy is a good fit for you

Important Considerations

Walk and Talk Therapy is not appropriate for all clients.
We will carefully assess during your intake if there are any health, mental health, or physical concerns that might make this approach unsuitable.

This may include (but is not limited to):

  • Bee sting or environmental allergies

  • Cardiac conditions or respiratory concerns (e.g., asthma)

  • Musculoskeletal issues

  • Any condition requiring physician clearance before starting new physical activities

Privacy and Boundaries

Because sessions take place in public spaces, there is a possibility of encountering people you know.

Your confidentiality is our top priority.
In our initial discussion, we will explore:

  • How you’d like to handle situations if someone approaches or passes us

  • How to manage sensitive topics while maintaining your comfort and privacy

Physical Well-being

We are committed to providing a safe psychological and physical space.
If you are sick, running a fever, or experiencing any health issues, Walk and Talk Therapy will be postponed until you are well.

Ready to Explore a Different Kind of Therapy?

If you’re interested in Walk and Talk Therapy, reach out to schedule your initial consultation — we’ll help you explore if this approach feels right for you.

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FAQS

  • Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes appropriate for the weather. You may also want to bring water, sunscreen, or a hat on sunny days.

  • If weather conditions are unsafe or uncomfortable, we’ll hold the session indoors or via telehealth instead. We’ll stay in communication with you to make the best plan.

  • We tailor the pace and distance to your comfort level. This is not exercise-focused — it’s about movement, mindfulness, and therapy.

  • Walk and Talk sessions are intended as one-on-one therapy time, but if you’re interested in couples or family sessions outdoors, we’re happy to discuss options.

  • We’ll talk ahead of time about how you’d like to handle any unexpected encounters on the trail to protect your comfort and confidentiality.