Walk & Talk Nature Therapy

What if counseling didn’t have to happen in an office?

Walk & Talk Nature Therapy at Momentum Counseling & Consulting is a different way of doing therapy for people who think better while moving. These sessions are opportunities for you to step outside, move your body, and explore the great outdoors as you engage in the counseling process. Sessions take place along local nature trails in the North Austin/Cedar Park area, creating a space to talk, think, reflect, and notice the beauty of your surroundings. Research suggests that spending time in nature and engaging in physical activity can support the human body and mind in a number of significant ways:

  • nervous system relaxation (parasympathetic activation)

  • emotional regulation and mood enhancement

  • improved focus and creativity

  • lower cortisol levels

  • improved immune system functioning and reduced inflammation

  • lower blood pressure and increased blood flow

  • increased executive attention capacity

  • exposure to sunlight (Vitamin D)

  • boosted endorphin production

Please note that Walk & Talk Nature Therapy is a seasonal offering. To accommodate the Texas heat, these sessions will be offered to clients from November to May.

If you are interested in learning more, scroll down for more information!

You can also contact Dr. Stokesberry with any questions at samstokesberry.lpc@gmail.com.

The Walk & Talk Nature Therapy Approach

This approach to therapy provides a unique opportunity for clients to engage in the talk therapy process of counseling while also reaping the benefits of spending time outside in nature. By combining talk therapy with trail walking in lush green North Austin spaces, clients are provided with a chance to walk side-by-side with their counselor as they engage in conversation, gently and thoughtfully move their bodies, observe the beauty of the natural world, and ground themselves through sensory experiences. The sessions will take place at a public park near the Momentum Counseling & Consulting office in the North Austin/Brushy Creek area. Specific location details will be provided to clients during the booking and consultation process. Sessions will be for individual clients only. Clients will choose the walking pace and distance that feels most beneficial to them during the clinical hour as they enjoy the scenery, engage in talk therapy, pause to sit and rest, and encounter the natural world around them.

Confidentiality

While confidentiality cannot be guaranteed due to the public nature of this therapeutic approach, all measures of client safety, professionalism, and best ethical practices will be implemented at all times. It is also possible that clients may encounter someone that they know while on the trail. Precautions and methods for addressing these challenges will be discussed at length with each client prior to the first session. Clients will also sign a waiver prior to engaging in these sessions and will need to thoughtfully assess whether this approach is a good fit for them since it involves physical activity in a public outdoor space which comes with additional risks.

Safety Considerations

Clients are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and shoes, utilize sun protection, bring water and snacks if needed, and have an emergency contact on file in case of any potential injuries or emergencies.

Weather

When the weather is not permitting due to excessive heat, rain/thunderstorms, or the rare winter snowfall, clients will have the option to modify their session to an in-person office or virtual session. The counselor will always monitor the weather and clients will be notified in advance if a change in location is necessary. Client safety will always come first!