Harnessing Nature: The Transformative Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy for Better Mental Health
- TTYL1
- Dec 27, 2025
- 5 min read
Mental health care is evolving, and one approach gaining attention is walk and talk therapy. This method combines traditional talk therapy with the benefits of being outdoors and moving physically. Changing the environment from a typical office to a natural setting can create a powerful shift in how people experience therapy. This post explores the benefits of walk and talk therapy, who it helps most, when it might not be suitable, and what questions to ask when considering this option.
What Is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walk and talk therapy is a form of psychotherapy conducted while walking outdoors, often in parks, nature trails, or quiet urban areas. Instead of sitting face-to-face in an office, the therapist and client walk side by side, engaging in conversation while moving through a natural environment. This approach blends physical activity with psychological support, offering a fresh way to address mental health concerns.
Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy
1. Enhances Emotional Well-being Through Nature
Research shows that spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The natural environment promotes relaxation and calmness, which can make it easier for clients to open up during therapy sessions (Bratman, Anderson, Berman, Cochran, de Vries, Flanders, Folke, Frumkin, Gross, Hartig, Kahn, Kuo, Lawler, Levin, Lindahl, Meyer-Lindenberg, Mitchell, Ouyang, Roe, Scarlett, Smith, van den Bosch, & Daily, 2019). Walking outdoors combines this calming effect with the benefits of physical movement.
2. Physical Movement Supports Mental Health
Walking increases blood flow and releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. This physical activity can help clients feel more energized and focused during sessions. It also breaks the traditional static setting of therapy, which some clients find intimidating or uncomfortable.
3. Encourages Openness and Connection
The side-by-side walking position removes the intensity of direct eye contact, which can sometimes feel confrontational. This setup often helps clients feel less self-conscious and more willing to share their thoughts and feelings. The informal setting can foster a stronger therapeutic alliance.
4. Breaks Routine and Sparks New Perspectives
Changing the environment can stimulate creativity and new ways of thinking. Being outdoors and moving can help clients gain fresh insights into their problems. The shift from a closed room to an open space symbolizes a break from old patterns, encouraging growth and change.
Who Benefits Most from Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walk and talk therapy suits many people but is especially helpful for:
Clients with anxiety or stress who benefit from the calming effects of nature and movement.
Those who find traditional therapy settings intimidating or feel confined by sitting in an office.
People who enjoy being outdoors and feel more relaxed in natural environments.
Clients who struggle with trauma or PTSD, as the gentle movement and open space can reduce feelings of being trapped.
Individuals with mild to moderate depression, where physical activity can complement talk therapy.
When Walk and Talk Therapy May Not Be Suitable
While walk and talk therapy offers many benefits, it is not ideal for everyone or every situation:
Severe mental health conditions such as acute psychosis or severe depression may require a more controlled and safe environment.
Clients with mobility issues or physical disabilities might find walking difficult or unsafe.
Extreme weather conditions can limit the feasibility of outdoor sessions.
Confidentiality concerns may arise in public spaces where conversations can be overheard.
Clients who prefer a traditional setting or feel distracted by outdoor stimuli might not benefit as much.
Therapists and clients should discuss these factors before choosing walk and talk therapy.
Questions to Ask a Therapist About Walk and Talk Therapy
If you are considering walk and talk therapy, here are some important questions to ask your therapist:
What experience do you have with walk and talk therapy? Understanding their background helps ensure they are comfortable and skilled in this approach.
How do you handle confidentiality in public settings? Knowing how your privacy is protected is crucial.
What locations do you use for sessions? This helps you assess if the environment feels safe and comfortable.
How do you adapt sessions for different weather or physical needs? This shows their flexibility and planning.
What should I expect during a walk and talk session? Getting a clear idea of the process can ease any concerns.
Are there any risks or limitations I should be aware of? Being informed helps you make the best decision for your mental health.
Practical Tips for Getting Started with Walk and Talk Therapy
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. You want to focus on the session, not discomfort.
Choose a therapist who is licensed and trained in both therapy and outdoor sessions. This ensures professional care.
Discuss your goals and preferences openly. Clear communication helps tailor the experience to your needs.
Be prepared for some physical activity. If walking long distances is difficult, ask about shorter routes or alternative options.
Consider safety. Choose familiar, safe locations and let someone know where you will be.
Research Supporting Walk and Talk Therapy
Studies have highlighted the positive effects of combining nature exposure with therapy. For example, a study by Berman, Jonides, and Kaplan (2008) found that walking in nature improves attention and reduces rumination, which is linked to depression. Another research review by Annerstedt and Währborg (2011) showed that nature-based therapy reduces stress hormones and improves mood.
These findings support the idea that walk and talk therapy can enhance traditional talk therapy by adding physical and environmental benefits.
Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. Walk and talk therapy offers a unique way to engage with therapy by connecting mind and body in a natural setting. It suits many people, especially those who find traditional therapy limiting or stressful. By asking the right questions and considering personal needs, you can decide if this approach fits your journey toward better mental health. If you feel stuck or need a fresh perspective, stepping outside might be exactly what you need.
References
Annerstedt, M., & Währborg, P. (2011). Nature-assisted therapy: Systematic review of controlled and observational studies. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, 39(4), 371-388. https://doi.org/10.1177/1403494810396400
Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207-1212. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2008.02225.x
Bratman, G. N., Anderson, C. B., Berman, M. G., Cochran, B., de Vries, S., Flanders, J., Folke, C., Frumkin, H., Gross, J. J., Hartig, T., Kahn, P. H., Kuo, M., Lawler, J. J., Levin, P. S., Lindahl, T., Meyer-Lindenberg, A., Mitchell, R., Ouyang, Z., Roe, J., Scarlett, L., Smith, J. R., van den Bosch, M., & Daily, G. C. (2019). Nature and mental health: An ecosystem service perspective. Science Advances, 5(7), eaax0903. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aax0903
