“If you want something new, you have to stop doing something old.”
Peter Drucker
What is Outdoor Counseling?
Outdoor counseling, better known as “walk and talk” counseling, is a mindfulness-based approach to mental health and wellness that helps you solve problems. Being out in nature can be healing. Being in a natural environment makes it easier for clients to relax, feel more comfortable, and enjoy the counseling process. Walking and movement can sometimes make it easier for clients to discuss their feelings rather than sitting across from a counselor in an office. It also helps stop worry, reduces stress and physical tensions, and allows you to form insights as you take a look at your life in a new and different way. As the name suggests, clients talk with their counselor as they walk outdoors. This is in lieu of sitting in an office or talking via video teleconference with your counselor over the internet. Outdoor counseling requires that you first have an initial intake appointment with your counselor in an office setting or via video teleconference so there is a good understanding of who you are as a person and what your goals are for counseling.
What happens during my Outdoor Counseling appointment?
We will meet at a mutually agreeable location – perhaps on a walking trail, along a scenic lake, or at another location of your choosing. We will walk side by side and talk about the things that are on your mind in the context of your goals for counseling. We will both take the time it takes to reflect upon what has been discussed to better understand the challenges that brought you to counseling in the first place. We also will work to process what is on your mind so you can overcome feelings of being stuck when facing difficult issues. This is so you can move forward and make positive strides with your life.
How strenuous is the walking that I will have to do?
You will set the pace for walking outdoors. Your level of movement can be easy going or at a faster pace, depending upon your preference. It may be that you prefer to walk for just a short while, then sit on a bench and process what we have talked about. It may also be the case that you want to walk more quickly for a longer period of time, taking a break to reflect after that. On any given day, it is up to you and what is comfortable for you. This is not a race and should be at a pace that helps you process what is on your mind. This is also a good way to get some needed exercise, which research shows can reduce pain, improve mood, and enhance overall health. It may be another way to lessen symptoms of depression and anxiety, which respond well to periods of physical activity. Walking and physical movement both encourage the expression of pent up frustration and emotion, paving the way towards healing. You may find that you feel more energized after a session of outdoor counseling.
Try something new. Remember, walking is literally moving forward. You can choose this as an option for opening your life up to new possibilities.
