When it comes to therapy, not every approach will fit with every client...
Each client is different and opening up your approach to therapy will help you expand and grow your practice in a unique way.
But what is Walk-and-Talk therapy and is it right for your practice? While every practice is also different, below I will lay out the advantages and disadvantages of Walk-and-Talk Therapy.
The definition of Walk-and-Talk Therapy is a mindfulness-based body-oriented therapy that can make it easier for clients to relax, stop ruminating, release physical tension, breathe deep and receive mind-body insight while processing experiences in a different way.
With that being said, here are 3 advantages to having Walk-and-Talk Therapy as part of your practice.
It Is A Different And New Approach To Therapy
When people think of therapy, they have a "passed down point of view". Most often, people think of being in an office or in front of their computer and talk to someone one-on-one. Some people prefer this common approach.
But for some people, that setting isn't for them. Being that Walk and Talk Therapy is a newer approach, it may open up the way we see therapy in general and attract a different group of audience that was never an audience before.
It Gets People Out Of Their Comfort Zone
Sometimes the best breakthroughs happen when people feel like they are free and open to discuss exactly what is on their mind. There is just something about nature that allows us to open up and express the feelings that may be lingering inside.
Encourages Active Mindset
Striving to be active is such an important part of mental health. Kids and adolescence seem to respond well when it comes to Walk and Talk Therapy. It encourages them to be active and take care of their health overall including mental health.
Here are a few things to point out that may be a disadvantage:
You Can't Control The Weather
So, unfortunately, not every day is the best day for a Walk and Talk Therapy session. Weather can not always be predicted (at least not correctly). So you will need to take into consideration that sessions may not go on as planned. You will need a backup plan. Maybe if the weather isn't good, you have an agreement to have a virtual session instead.
Privacy
There is a possibility that you may see people you know or your client may see someone they know. If this happens, have something in place to help face these obstacles would be a great idea.
Legal Concerns
If the session isn't being held in a controlled environment, there is always a chance that something problematic will come up. My best tip is to make sure you are covered by having the right paperwork in place to avoid issues that can be avoided. Simple Practice has some great informed consent forms that may help you with this new approach to stay protected.
Bringing a new approach to your practice can be a great addition.
It is always a great idea to get familiar with a new approach to make sure it is a great fit for you and your clients. I hope this blog post helps you understand this approach and encourages you to view other approaches you may want to add to your practice.
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