Counselling is often perceived as
counsellor and client sitting opposite each
other in a traditional bricks and mortar
room.
But, I' pleased to inform you, that's not the
case!
Therapy outdoors, also known as Walk and
talk therapy, has a range of benefits.
Outdoor therapy can offer just as much as
indoor therapy, and sometimes, depending
on the individual circumstances, more.
It can help people who find indoor therapy
confining, uninspiring or awkward. It may be
that the conventional setting is
uncomfortable or too formal, and therefore,
walking whilst talking, may be a more
casual approach.
Outdoor therapy can take place anywhere!
In a forest, local park, beach, or on a bench
somewhere quiet, with a cuppa.
For some Autistic individuals, sitting inside
directly facing a counsellor, can feel
unnatural, and this can form a direct block
to the therapeutic benefit for the client.
Some people feel more comfortable walking
side by side with their counsellor, not
making eye contact, or being looked at as
they talk, but simply having someone
accompanying them, as they walk through
their therapeutic journey.
Infact, the British Association of
Counsellors and Psychotherapists state:
Research shows it’s of particular use for
those who feel stuck in therapy, for
survivors of institutional and therapeutic
abuse, and for those with previous negative
experiences of therapy.
Walk and talk therapy has been shown to
help with the following:
A reduction of intrusive thoughts, whilst
Reduces Ruminating thoughts, as well as thay
nature has been shown to have a calming
and therapeutic effect on the mind and
body. Being in nature can reduce stress,
aid sleep, provide harmony for body and
mind to reset, and improve overall mood
Nature is our natural setting, so why not
consider using it as a base for your
counselling space!
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