Walk, talk, heal—therapy that moves with you.
Mental health care works best when it’s as flexible and responsive as the people it’s designed to support.
To offer a fresh take on counselling, we’re introducing Walk and Talk Therapy (WaTT). An approach that takes your session outdoors, because innovation in therapy doesn’t always mean high-tech, sometimes, it means returning to what’s simple and grounding.
How does it work?
Your first step is booking an initial appointment, conducted online or in the consulting room. This session allows you to meet your clinician, ask questions. Together we can decide if WaTT will be appropriate and prepare for your first outdoor session.
Walk and talk therapy appointments are billed at $230.00 per session. To claim Medicare rebates, visit your GP to discuss a Mental Health Care Plan and suitability for WaTT.
Alternatively, sessions can be billed privately or claimed through your health insurer, depending on your cover.
In our WaTT sessions, you’ll spend 50-60 minutes in a moderate walk side-by-side with our psychologist. Currently all WaTT sessions start and finish at Perth’s Trigg Beach.
And we don’t have to walk the entire session … sitting and talking while looking at open space works too. WaTT is particularly effective for those who feel therapy outside a consulting room may be more effective for them.
What about bad weather?
Generally, if it’s wet or cold we just grab a heavy coat or bring an umbrella. But we can switch the session to online if you prefer. And if it’s stinking hot, bring water and a hat, but the same online option applies. Your call.
Why walk and talk therapy?
Many people feel and research suggests there may be benefit from outdoor therapy for several reasons. Being in nature has a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting well-being. The natural environment helps people feel more relaxed and grounded during therapy.
Walking during sessions adds to this experience. Physical activity can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and make the process feel more natural than sitting in an office. Walking side by side with a therapist can also feel less formal, making it easier to open up.
For some, walking symbolises progress, aligning with their goals of personal growth. The outdoor setting can spark creativity and new perspectives, helping people process their emotions in fresh ways.
Outdoor therapy is also a good alternative for those who find indoor spaces confining or uncomfortable. Its relaxed feel can reduce the stigma some associate with seeking mental health support, making it a unique and appealing option for many.
It's important to remember that walk and talk therapy might not be the best fit for everyone. Some individuals may prefer the privacy and stillness of a traditional office setting. Moreover, those with mobility issues might find this method challenging.
Have more questions about WaTT?
Our first appointment is always telehealth or face-to-face. This gives us a chance to chat, answer any questions you have, discuss whether WaTT is a good fit for you, and work together to create a treatment plan that includes WaTT if it’s the right option.