What are the benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy?
Sometimes a change of scenery and the opportunity for movement offer new insights, moments for connection, and ways of calming/regulating your nervous system. Some of the things clients have said they like about Walk & Talk Therapy are that it gives them a chance to “be outside,” “connect with nature and spirituality,” “talk to the therapist without having to make eye contact,” “notice sensations in my body and breathing,” and “feel more relaxed and less clinical.”
What precautions are taken to remain safe?
We will only meet during the day in an area we both agree is suitable for our sessions. You must sign a waiver agreeing that you are physically well enough to participate in Walk & Talk Therapy. We can walk at a slow to moderate pace of your choosing, so we can talk with each other without becoming out of breath. You will provide me with an emergency contact person in case of any medical emergencies, and I will call that person or 911 if there is an emergency.
Where do you usually meet for Walk & Talk Therapy?
A park near my home (the northwest side of Chicago) will have no extra mileage charge for meeting there. I am willing to travel to parks and nature preserves/paths within the Chicago area at a mileage rate of $25/mile traveled, added to my base fee of $200. Some well-known parks and their fees include:
• Horner park (+$50)
• Montrose Beach (+$150)
• North Park Village Nature Center (+$150)
• 606 West Trail Head (+$150)
• Lincoln Park (+$200)
What if there is bad weather?
If there is bad weather (heavy rain or snow or thunder and lightning), we will conduct Teletherapy instead and can make a plan to reschedule Walk & Talk Therapy. If the weather is questionable (light rain or snow), I will check with you the morning of our session to determine if we agree to meet. If you choose to cancel rather than use Teletherapy, you will be subject to paying the late cancellation fee for the entire session.
How do we handle it if one of us sees someone we know?
One of the potential risks of Walk & Talk Therapy is that we will be in a public or semi-public place, which means there is a chance of seeing someone who recognizes you or me. We can talk about and create a strategy for how you want to handle this if it happens. If you see someone you know, you may acknowledge them and introduce me if you wish. If you choose to introduce me, you may refer to me as an acquaintance, friend, neighbor, therapist, etc. If I see someone I know, I will likely attempt to avoid an interaction, but if it seems unavoidable, I will protect your identity and that you are a client, probably saying something like, “Good to see you. We are in the middle of an important conversation. Can I call you later?”
To inquire about Walk & Talk Therapy, schedule a free 15-minute consultation.