Would it help if you were moving?

Walking therapy is exactly what it says, instead of sitting in my office for your session, we get out in the great outdoors.

This form of counselling takes place in real-time and I offer sessions walking three routes around Warden Hills, dependent on physical ability, and in most open spaces around Luton, Bedfordshire. 

Your safety is of paramount concern and once our route is agreed upon, I will complete a written risk assessment including a map for the planned route; you will be able to access this online and need to confirm you are happy to proceed prior to the session taking place.

The reason is only most open spaces that are suitable are for the following reasons:

• The space needs to be large enough that we are able to talk without being overheard; despite being outdoors, confidentiality and privacy are still factors to be considered.

• The space needs to be accessible and appropriate.

You need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and I will not go ahead with the session if I believe either of these is not appropriate. We will agree on a ‘Plan B’ in case of bad weather.

There are ongoing studies into the benefits of having counselling while moving as the mind/body connection is enhanced, and difficult feelings can be better managed as there is a physical outlet.  So far, the results look promising.  The benefits of simply being in nature/outdoors have been well documented.

How does walking while counselling work?

• This form of counselling takes place in real-time.

• We arrange the day and time as with indoor counselling, with the added dimension of agreeing on a place

• We will talk for 1 hour while making our way around our agreed route

• This is a safe space for you to discuss any areas of your life that you want to.

• As a person-centred counsellor, I will work with whatever you bring to the session that day.  Your counselling goals are a plan for the sessions, not the only focus.

Advantages of Walking Counselling

• It allows social distancing in a natural way

• Being outside has its own benefits

Disadvantages of Walking Counselling

• Sessions are dependent on an appropriate space being found

• Sessions are dependent on pleasant weather

• These sessions may not be appropriate due to illness, childcare or living too far away

Please Note: Happy Hatching Mind is not an emergency service if you are having a mental health crisis.  Please go to In An Emergency for crisis support.