Outdoor Therapy.
I’ve always appreciated a good metaphor to help make sense of life’s twists and turns—and if you join me for walk-and-talk therapy, you’ll soon notice that ancient woodland offers these in abundance!
Alongside its symbolic richness, the forest provides a peaceful and calming space to reflect on thoughts, emotions, and questions, away from the noise and busyness of everyday life.
While the path is public and shared by other walkers (and their dogs) there are often fair stretches in which we have only the birds and trees for company. It is completely up to you whether we spend the full 50 minutes walking, or if you’d prefer to incorporate some time to pause here and there, maybe sitting on a secluded bench or conveniently laid tree log.
The paths through the woods can be uneven, with tree roots, gentle inclines, steps, and the occasional muddy patch. It’s important that you feel physically comfortable with this kind of terrain. If you have any specific requirements or questions, please do get in touch so I can accommodate where possible.
Sessions start and end at the same easy-to-find meeting point, close to the car park and facilities. There are public toilets and a small café nearby if you’d like to make use of them before or after our walk.
Free parking is available on site, with an optional donation at the meter. While spaces are usually available, it can get busy at peak times, so please allow yourself extra time to park and arrive calmly for the start of your session.
Finally, please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear suitable for woodland paths. You’re welcome to bring a water bottle or a warm flask, especially on hot or colder days. The pace will be gentle, with plenty of chances to pause, but being comfortable means you can make the most of the session, surrounded by the quiet steadiness of nature.
FAQs
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The biggest difference is the setting. Many people find walking side by side in nature helps them feel more relaxed and open. The movement and fresh air can also support emotional processing and reduce stress.
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Sessions will go ahead rain or shine, so it’s a good idea to dress for the weather, with layers and waterproofs when necessary, and always comfortable footwear. Many clients find that being outdoors in different conditions can be surprisingly grounding and restorative.
That said, your safety and wellbeing always come first. If the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning, or if conditions are unsafe (such as high winds, storms, or ice), we’ll either reschedule the session or move it online. I’ll always aim to make that call with as much notice as possible so we both have time to adapt and prepare.
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You don’t need to be especially fit to take part. The walks are gentle and always paced around how you’re feeling on the day. We can take breaks, stop and sit, or go as slowly as needed.
That said, the quieter, more private parts of the woodland are a little further from the café and facilities at our start point. If that could be a concern, just let me know - we can chat through options to make sure the route feels right for you.
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Yes. I take great care to choose quiet, peaceful locations. That said, the paths are public and it is likely we will pass other walkers and woodland visitors. Planning how to navigate this, as well as preparing for the possibility of bumping into someone you know, are things we will discuss during your initial session. Just like indoor therapy, your privacy and confidentiality are always respected and treated with priority.
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Wear whatever helps you feel comfortable outdoors. Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable footwear are highly advised. A waterproof jacket and water bottle may be handy too. I’ll trust you to wear what feels right for you - your physical comfort is your responsibility.
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That’s completely ok; outdoor counselling is flexible. We can pause often, take a slower pace, or find a quiet spot to sit if that feels more aligned with what you need. There’s no expectation to keep moving or to talk the whole time. Everyone has their own preference of pace, both in terms of movement and conversation. As a person-centred counsellor, I follow your lead in this, and there is no pressure to stick to consistent energy or structure.
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Please get in touch; I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
Get in touch.
If something here has spoken to you, you’re very welcome to reach out. Whether you have questions, want to arrange an initial session, or just need a little more information, I’d love to hear from you.
