Walk and Talk Therapy
Walk and Talk Therapy
What is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walk and Talk Therapy is a way for clients and mental health providers to engage in one-on-one, face-to-face interactions. The same therapy techniques and interventions will be applied, but in a different setting. The mental health provider will not serve a personal trainer; however, Groundwork Counseling, LLC believes that walking is beneficial to both mental and physical health. Walk and Talk Therapy offers a service outside of the screen that allows individuals to step outside and take a breath of fresh air, while also working on their mental health.
Who is Walk and Talk Therapy Right For?
Walk and Talk sessions are currently offered for self-pay clients. Walk and Talk Therapy fits those individuals who enjoy being in nature and may be appropriate for individuals seeking help with a various range of concerns:
Depression
Generalized and Social Anxiety
Anger Management
Relationship challenges
Finding constructive ways to enhance daily functioning
Life transitions
Exploring, establishing, and maintaining healthy coping mechanisms
Confidentiality and Privacy:
The client and the mental health provider will discuss and consider how boundaries will be handled while in public spaces. Confidentiality and Privacy CANNOT be guaranteed during Walk and Talk sessions, as this service is provided in a public setting. Boundaries that will be discussed include, but are not limited to, for example, what the mental health provider and client will do if someone approaches or passes on a walking trail while sensitive material is being discussed.
More-To-Know:
Groundwork Counseling, LLC will provide the client with a "Physical Health" form to complete with their doctor or physician prior to the initial tele-health session. This approval assists in ensuring that the client is able to participate in Walk and Talk sessions without added risk to health or pre-existing conditions. The completion of this "Physical Health" form is mandatory, as Groundwork Counseling, LLC's mental health providers may not be certified to handle and provide adequate medical interventions (such as administering CPR or life-saving medication in the event of a physical health crisis).
Once a client requests a Walk and Talk session, an initial tele-health appointment will be scheduled to discuss and consider any potential risks and benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy and establish desired goals for therapy. This initial appointment will also be used to review the "Physical Health" form that has, at this point, been completed by the client's doctor or physician. Certain physical conditions may not be suitable for Walk and Talk sessions, and may require prior clearance from a doctor or physician.
If denied permission from their doctor or physician, the mental health provider may assist the client with finding other treatment options.
If granted permission from their doctor or physician, the mental health provider will discuss any concerning physical aspects that may be of concern to the client's physical health, such as allergies to stinging insects, plants, pollens, or animals. Additionally, the mental health provider will discuss meeting at the agreed upon location, scheduling the first session, appointment rates, and payment. The client will then receive a contract that notes the condition and obligations of the client and mental health provider, as well as the client's agreement to participate in Walk and Talk sessions.
Location, Location, Location:
Where is this service offered? A mental health provider will travel and meet the client at the following agreed upon locations:
Easy Walker Park - Mount Sterling, KY
Morehead City Park Complex - Morehead KY
The Arboretum - Lexington, KY