Outdoor therapy (sometimes known as ‘walk and talk therapy’) takes counselling outside of the traditional therapy room, into natural settings like parks, beside water or along woodland paths. It can be a mobile therapy, or if mobility is challenging, we might set some chairs up in a natural setting. If you find creative activities supportive in your therapeutic sessions we can use natural objects to use.
Outdoor therapy can have psychological and emotional benefits such as:
– Reduced anxiety and stress: being in nature can lower cortisol levels and promote feelings of calm.
– Boosted mood: Natural light and fresh air can lift mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
– Greater openess: Walking side by side instead of sitting face-to-face can make it easier to speak about difficult topics.
– Grounding effect: Nature can help people feel more connected, centred and mindful.
It can have practical and physical benefits such as:
– Movement helps thinking: gentle walking can stimulate clearer thinking and creativity
-Supports overall well-being: Physical activity, even when it’s very light, contributes to better mental health.
– More comfortable for some people: For people who feel intimidated by a therapy room, or find the idea of sitting for 50 minutes challenging, outdoor sessions can feel less formal and more natural.
Currently, my main location is the Rivelin Valley but I am happy to discuss other possibilities and I am researching the use of parks in Sheffield.
I am aiming to use some park destinations that are wheelchair friendly. Contact me to arrange a free 15 minute consultation and we can discuss how I could best meet your needs.
If you’re interested in outdoor therapy, please contact me via email and we can arrange a 15 minute free consultation to discuss the sessions and answer any further questions you might have.