Walk & Talk Therapy: A Different Way to Heal

Not everyone feels their best sitting in a therapy room — and that’s okay.

For many people, movement, nature, and fresh air make it easier to breathe, think, and talk about what’s going on beneath the surface. That’s where Walk & Talk Therapy comes in.

At The Break Psychology, we offer the option to take your session outdoors — along the beach, through the Botanical Gardens, or in another agreed location in the Illawarra. It’s the same evidence-based therapy you’d receive in the clinic… simply in a setting that feels calm, spacious, and grounding.

Here’s what you can expect.

What Is Walk & Talk Therapy?

Walk & Talk Therapy is a 50-minute psychological session held outdoors while walking side-by-side at a comfortable pace. It blends the benefits of traditional therapy with the nervous-system regulation and clarity that often come from gentle movement and being in nature.

Research shows that walking can help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and support clearer thinking — making the therapeutic process feel more open and less pressured.

Where Do We Meet?

We typically meet at one of the following locations:

🌿 Corrimal/Thirroul coastline

🌿 The Wollongong Botanic Garden

🌿 Puckeys Reserve

🌿 Or another suitable location we agree on together

The day before your session, you will receive a message confirming:

✔ the exact meeting point

✔ your psychologist’s contact number

✔ weather updates

✔ any changes needed

What Happens If the Weather Is Bad?

Because nature doesn’t always follow the plan, we keep things flexible and supportive.

If the weather isn’t suitable, we can easily switch to:

✔ Telehealth (video or phone)

✔ In-person at our Corrimal practice

✔ Rescheduling to another time

There’s no penalty for weather-related changes. We simply adjust to whatever helps you get the most out of the session.

What Does the Session Look Like?

A Walk & Talk session includes:

• A brief check-in at the meeting point

• A gentle walk at your preferred pace

• A normal therapeutic conversation, guided by your goals

• Moments to pause, sit, breathe, or reflect if needed

• Evidence-based tools (CBT, ACT, trauma-informed approaches, mindfulness)

• A wrap-up near the end to integrate insights and plan your next steps

You don’t need to be “fit” or athletic — we walk in a way that feels natural and comfortable.

Confidentiality & Privacy During Walk and Talk Sessions

Because Walk and Talk Therapy takes place outdoors, there is a small chance we may pass other people or, on rare occasions, someone either of us knows. Your privacy remains a priority. If we encounter others during your session, I will not disclose my role or acknowledge you as a client. We will follow your lead; if you greet them, I will respond politely without revealing any professional context.

If at any point you feel uncomfortable due to people nearby, we can pause, move to a quieter area, or shift the conversation to something less personal until privacy returns. Your wellbeing and confidentiality guide the pace and depth of the session.

This approach aligns with the APS Code of Ethics and ensures we maintain the same standards of respect, discretion, and professional boundaries you would expect in a traditional therapy room.

What Can Walk & Talk Therapy Help With?

Walk & Talk can support people experiencing:

• Anxiety or nervous system dysregulation

• Trauma recovery

• Burnout and stress

• Overwhelm or rumination

• Life transitions

• Low mood

• Emotional regulation difficulties

• Feelings of stagnation or being “stuck”

Many clients report feeling more grounded, open, and reflective outdoors — and often find conversations flow more naturally when walking side-by-side instead of face-to-face.

Important Practical Details

• Sessions are 50 minutes

• Fee: $250

• Medicare rebate applies if you have a Mental Health Care Plan

• A limited number of Walk & Talk spots are available each week due to travel and preparation time

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suited to the weather

• Bring water, sunscreen, and any mobility supports you need

Is Walk & Talk Right for Me?

Walk & Talk can be a wonderful option if you:

✨ feel more comfortable moving than sitting

✨ enjoy nature and find it calming

✨ prefer a less formal therapeutic space

✨ find it easier to talk while active

✨ want a blend of body and mind-based support

If you’re unsure, you can also combine Walk & Talk with face-to-face or Telehealth sessions — whatever works best for your wellbeing.