Q: How is this different from traditional therapy in your office?
The only difference is that we conduct the session outdoors while walking together. Outside of that, and wearing a pair of sneakers, nothing else changes. Many clients share that the act of moving as we walk side by side helps to process areas of their life that may feel “stuck.”
Q: What about bad weather?
It is the client’s choice to make the ‘weather call.’ The office is always an option, and I respect your choice in this. If you prefer to walk outside, then I am not concerned about a few raindrops or sun rays.
Q: Is this a cardio workout or personal training?
Great question! No, this is not personal training, and you, the client sets the pace. The focus is on your processing, and not on exercise—although getting the blood moving helps connect the brain, and clients share that burning a few calories is an added benefit that they enjoy! There is nothing physically strenuous about the session. If you prefer a slow pace, that is fine. If you prefer a faster pace, no problem—you set the speed! Will you feel better after a walk therapy session? You bet you will.
Q: I am embarrassed because I am overweight, what if I cannot do it?
I conduct my Walk & Talk therapy sessions with clients of all shapes and sizes, genders and ages—from clients in their 20’s to clients in their 70’s. Walk & Talk session is about you, your pace, and your comfort. The focus is on the therapy process and not on competition or walking until exhausted. I know it may feel like a challenge, but I will support you every step of the way if you are feeling scared or ashamed. Together we will move you toward a healthier way of relating to your mind, body and spirit!
Q: Can we switch back to the office if I find I don’t enjoy this? Or can we alternate from week to week?
Absolutely. Again, it is your choice to take the session outdoors for a Walk & Talk session, or to remain inside the office if that is what you prefer. I respect your choice and honor what feels best for you.
Q: Where is the walking location? Where do we meet?
We meet at my Silver Spring office location for the first visit. In this visit, we will talk about you and what you are looking and hoping for. I will provide you with some forms to fill out and help to frame the session(s). At that appointment, we will agree upon a “Walk & Talk” location for our next visit and meet there. Sessions begin and end on time, so it is best if you are already in your sneakers and walking clothes when we meet in nature. We then walk and talk in our agreed upon setting surrounded by serene tree-lined paths.
Q: How long is the Walk & Talk session?
The session is the same in the office as it is walking—50 minutes.
Q: Is there an additional cost for Walk & Talk therapy?
There is no additional cost—the fee you pay for your session is the same fee for Walk & Talk therapy.
Q: What about my confidentiality?
This has not been a concern for the clients who currently participate in Walk & Talk therapy – you simply sign a consent form and out the door we go! If by chance we happen to run into someone you know, then I will follow your lead and will never compromise your confidentiality. It is up to you to acknowledge me as your therapist if you chose to do so – the choice is up to you.
Q: What if you see someone you know?
My focus and support is on you and the session continues without interruption. Inside or outside the office, I will always maintain your confidentiality and will not acknowledge you to anyone as my client without your signed permission. The general public is used to seeing people walking together every day—it is part of our normal routine. We are simply two people walking and talking; there is nothing overt that states that this is a therapy session. I’ve not once had a client say it’s uncomfortable, and I will always honor our time together.
Q: I really like the idea of a walking session—is there anything else I should know in order to prepare?
The only thing you will need is comfy shoes! And, if appropriate, double check with your doctor that there are not medical conditions that would prevent you from participating in Walk & Talk therapy. Then contact me to set up your first session, and we will get started!