What is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and talk therapy is a form of therapy where the therapist and client walk together during all or part of a session. It can take place on gentle paths, in parks, around gardens, on accessible loops, or in other agreed outdoor settings.

The therapy remains therapy. The walking is not a fitness session or casual chat; it is a different setting and rhythm for therapeutic work.

Walking side by side can feel less intense than sitting face to face. Movement, pace, pauses and shared attention to surroundings can help some clients reflect, regulate and speak more freely.

The route can also offer natural moments for grounding, noticing, metaphor and choice, while still respecting the client's needs, consent and boundaries.

Therapists need to consider confidentiality in public spaces, route suitability, weather decisions, physical accessibility, emergency contact processes and how notes or follow-up actions will be recorded after the session.

Walk and talk work benefits from clear agreements before the first outdoor session, including what happens if either person sees someone they know.