Walking and talking for well-being: exploring the effectiveness of walk and talk therapy

Hannah Prince-Llewellyn*, Paul McCarthy

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Despite the rising trend of integrating nature and movement into talking therapy, the extent of empirical support remains limited. This study explored the effects of a walk and talk intervention on adult mood and well-being using a multiple baseline design with pre, post and follow-up assessments. Five adults (3 males and 2 females) from a technology company took part in a walk and talk intervention lasting approximately 6–8 sessions. They completed self-report measures at baseline, post-intervention and follow-up, with semi-structured interviews conducted at follow-up. Results showed a reduction in psychological distress and an increase in well-being for all participants from baseline to follow-up. Qualitative data from a thematic analysis supported these findings: participants found the natural, calming effect of the outdoors, combined with the movement of walking, facilitated a sense of freedom to express themselves and, in doing so, maximise the benefits of the therapeutic space. These included gaining a broader perspective, heightened self-awareness and greater acceptance of oneself, others and life's challenges. This study offers real-world evidence supporting walk and talk therapy as an effective intervention for adult well-being and mood.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages11
JournalCounselling and Psychotherapy Research
Early online date3 Nov 2024
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 3 Nov 2024

Keywords

  • walk and talk therapy
  • outdoor therapy
  • wellbeing
  • walking
  • nature
  • well-being

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Applied Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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