Outside therapy sessions, also known as "walk-and-talk" therapy, can be a beneficial and refreshing approach to traditional office-based therapy sessions. It involves taking your therapy session outside and engaging in a therapeutic conversation while walking together. Here's how it generally works:
Location: Typically, you and your therapist decide on a suitable outdoor location for the walk. It could be a nearby park, a quiet street, a nature trail, or any place where you can comfortably walk and talk without major distractions.
Walking: During the session, you and your therapist walk side by side, creating a more relaxed and informal setting. This change of environment can help some people feel less confined and more open to discussing their thoughts and feelings.
Privacy: The therapist will still ensure that your conversation remains private and confidential, just like in a regular office-based session. They will be mindful of your comfort and confidentiality, so you can freely express yourself.
Benefits: Walk-and-talk therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals who feel anxious or uncomfortable in traditional therapy settings. The movement and fresh air can also add to the therapeutic benefits by reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
Regarding your concerns about how you look and what people might think, it's essential to remember that therapy is a professional relationship. Your therapist's focus should be on supporting you and your well-being, not on judging your appearance or worrying about others' opinions.
If you feel comfortable discussing this option with your therapist, it's a good idea to communicate your interest in trying walk-and-talk therapy. Your therapist will likely be understanding and accommodating of your preferences. Remember, therapists are trained to maintain professional boundaries and should be able to handle situations like this with sensitivity and care.
If you are worried about potential judgments from others while walking with your therapist, keep in mind that people passing by are unlikely to know the nature of your relationship. However, even if someone were to assume something, their opinions are not relevant to your therapeutic journey. Your focus should be on what helps you best in your therapy process.
Overall, if you believe that walk-and-talk therapy might be beneficial for you, discuss it with your therapist openly. They will be in the best position to address your concerns and help you decide whether this approach aligns with your therapeutic goals.