Walk & Talk Therapy 

Walk & Talk Therapy is a one-on-one therapeutic conversation with your psychologist in an outdoor natural setting. The walking is secondary to the conversation combining the mind and the body. This approach can be particularly effective for those who find it easier to open up while moving or feel more relaxed in an outdoor environment. 

Walk & Talk Therapy can be particularly effective for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions. The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and therapeutic dialogue helps to break down barriers and promote a sense of wellbeing. 
 

Walk & Talk sessions are subject to weather, if it is raining or too windy your session will be moved to a telehealth (phone or video) session by notification of your psychologist. If you need to, Walk & Talk appointments can be shifted to telehealth (phone or video) appointments with a minimum of 2 hours' notice. This can be a useful way to avoid unnecessarily cancelling a session. However, if you are injured or don’t feel like walking then there are plenty of areas to sit and take in the views while talking.

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If you see someone you know while on your Walk & Talk session, just let your psychologist know, we will stop talking until we have passed them by and resume as normal.  During your first session your psychologist will run through what you would like to do if this does occur. Our psychologists will wear casual clothing while on your Walk & Talk session. 

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You're welcome to bring your little one in a pram, walk your dog on a lead (depending on their temperament), or walk with your psychologist on your own. 

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Your initial session will be conducted via telehealth (video or phone) to gain a good understanding of what's going on for you, undertaking a comprehensive history, and discussing your therapy goals. After that we are free to Walk & Talk. 

 

Benefits of Walk & Talk Therapy:

• Increased comfort and relaxation: being in nature and moving can make it easier to talk about difficult topics. 

• Physical and mental health benefits: the combination of physical activity and natural settings enhances overall wellbeing. Boosts mood and reduces stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. Exercise promotes a better sleep cycle and improves circulation. 

• Enhanced therapeutic outcomes: the informal setting can lead to more open and productive conversations.

• Increased self-esteem and life balance: prioritising time for yourself

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Locations:

ASM offers Walk & Talk at three different locations, Lake Weeroona Bendigo (1.5km around), Lake Neangar in Eaglehawk (1.1km around), and Kennington Reservoir in Kennington (2.7km around). We walk at the pace you choose, can stop along the way and rest as needed. Each location has an asphalt or concreted path and seating at various spots around the track. 

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