Walk & Talk Therapy

 

What is Walk & Talk Therapy?

Walk and Talk Therapy is just want it sounds like…the combination of traditional talk therapy and walking. The client receives all of the benefits of traditional therapy with the added benefits that come with walking in nature. Research shows that walking outside can release endorphins that can increase your energy, improve your mood, help you cope with stress, and reduce tension and anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does it Work?

After the first office intake session, we will discuss the benefits and drawbacks to this type of therapy to see if it is right for you. Sessions thereafter can be held while walking on one of many county walking trails. Many people find it easier to open up when walking next to someone instead of sitting across from them.

What About the Weather?

If the forecast isn’t looking favorable, then we can either hold the session at the office or reschedule for another time.

What Should I Wear?

You should come dressed in comfortable, weather appropriate, shoes and clothing. This type of therapy isn’t meant to be a cardio work-out. We usually walk at a slow to medium pace.

Is Walk and Talk Therapy for Everyone?

As long as you are over 18 years old (or have parental consent) and there are no medical issues that would prevent you from walking, you can participate in this type of therapy.

Can I Bring my Baby or Dog?

Typically, it is best to be able to focus just on you and your needs. When walking outside verses in the office, there is a little more flexibility. An infant in a stroller or a dog that walks well on a leash may be an option depending on your needs.

Can We Switch Back to the Office if I Find I Don’t Enjoy the Walk & Talk Option?

Yes! It is always your choice where to hold the session. You can decide even session by session basis if you’d like. 

Is There an Additional Cost to Walk & Talk Therapy?

No, session fees are the same for an in office session or on the trails.

How Long Are Walk & Talk Therapy Sessions?

Session are the same length of time whether they are in the office or on the trail, approximately 50 minutes.

Where Is the Walking Location?

 That’s the best thing about this type of therapy, location flexibility! Depending on your availability, we can hold sessions on the west side of Madison close to the office or we can choose one of the many trails that the county has to offer.

What About Confidentiality?

Clients who participate in Walk & Talk Therapy have not had issues with confidentiality. If we happen to run into someone you know, it usually ends up being a quick hello and then we keep walking. I will follow your lead and never compromise your confidentiality. You can acknowledge me as a therapist or not, completely up to you.

Is This Type of Therapy Covered by Insurance?

I am not paneled with any insurance companies but am an out-of-network provider. After each appointment, I can give you something called a ‘superbill’ that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Many clients choose not to go through their insurance company to avoid having a diagnosis on their medical record. Sessions are to be paid in full at the beginning of each session (cash, check, or credit) but your counseling services may be eligible for reimbursement through medical spending or health care savings accounts.


How Do I Access My Out-of-Network Benefit?

Call the phone number on the back of your insurance card and ask the following questions:

  • What are my mental health benefits?
  • Do I have a deductible? If yes, has it been met?
  • How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
  • How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?

Is There Research to Support Walk & Talk Therapy?

https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/walk-and-talk-therapy#1 Exercise is good for the body and the mind. It may improve psychotherapy sessions, too.”

https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/03/how-exercise-can-calm-anxiety/ “Exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety in both people and animals.”

http://brainblogger.com/2013/05/08/exercise-for-depression-a-gold-standard-therapy/ “Exercise for Depression—A Gold Standard Therapy.”

https://welldoing.org/article/walking-and-talking-eileen-wise “Effective with people of all ages.”

 

Testimonials

“I love the flexibility of being able to walk outside during my sessions or meet in the office if I’m just not feeling it. Even though I don’t love Wisconsin winters, a walk outside with my therapist doesn’t seem so bad.”

~Madison Mom

“Being able to walk on a trail close to my office is very helpful when my schedule doesn’t allow for the extra travel time to the therapist’s office. Just being outside makes me feel better after being cooped up all day but having a therapy session at the same time amplifies the effect.”

~Madison Professional

“I like walking outside instead of sitting on a couch in an office. I feel less like there is something wrong with me when we are walking then when we sitting across from each other in the office. I didn’t want to go to therapy but when my mom mentioned not being in an office I was more willing to give it a try.”

~Madison Teen

 

 

Have questions or would like to make an appointment?

Call us at 608-628-7147 or email at tricia@authenticitycounseling.com .

Contact Us Today!

Authenticity Counseling

6601 Grand Teton Plaza

Suite 1A

Madison, WI


Phone: 608-628-7147

E-mail: tricia@authenticitycounseling.com

 

 

 

Print | Sitemap
©2016 Authenticity Counseling │ Madison, WI 53719 │ 608-628-7147