Walk & Talk Counselling

Counselling doesn’t have to be seated and face-to-face. I understand the value of in-person connection and also the discomfort that can come from face-to-face/eye contact interactions.

With Walk & Talk Counselling in Kelowna you get to walk alongside your therapist. This can help you develop the confidence to speak with others at your own pace and to explore and find strategies to resolve personal issues you’re facing. All the while getting some exercise, fresh air, and gaining perspective.

While virtual sessions offer flexibility, there are unique advantages to meeting in-person for a walk and talk session that many clients find deeply beneficial:

• Enhanced Connection and Non-Verbal Communication: Being in the physical presence of others engages more of our senses. Non-verbal cues (like body language and subtle expressions) are more easily shared and understood. This often deepens the therapeutic connection and enriches the dialogue.

• Reduced Intensity: Side-by-side communication can feel less “in the hot-seat” than face-to-face eye contact. Some neurodivergent men don’t like eye contact or feel forced to conform to neurotypical ways of locking eyes. Walk & talk therapy helps relieve any of those unnecessary struggles.

• Physical Grounding: Movement helps regulate the nervous system and can reduce anxiety during difficult conversations. Not to mention that physical exercise on its own benefits mental health in general.

• Cognitive Boost: Exercise is known to help clear “brain fog” and spark new perspectives. While walking in the beautiful nature Kelowna has to offer, you may gain insights that no office can stimulate.

• Nature Connection: Fresh air and greenery naturally lower cortisol (stress) levels and provide a calming background setting for potentially difficult emotions.

• “What if we run into someone I know?” This is possible so we will discuss beforehand best practices and preferences for how we will manage this situation in a way that is as comfortable for you as possible.

• “Is it confidential?” Confidentiality is not guaranteed in the same way as a private virtual counselling session is. I will do my best to keep us on a path that is as private as possible and we will discuss ways of managing confidentiality throughout the session to have a plan in case you start to feel concerned about your privacy and/or confidentiality.

• Informed Consent: Due to the inherent nature of outdoor walk and talk sessions, there is an additional consent form highlighting potential risks with this form of therapy. This will be sent to you after you book a session.