Forest Walks | Walk And Talks
Forest Walk Therapy integrates psychotherapeutic work with the grounding presence of nature. Moving outdoors can help clients feel more at ease, regulate their nervous system, and access deeper reflection. These sessions take place in woodland surroundings in St Albans, offering a gentle, restorative alternative to traditional room-based therapy.
Research consistently shows that time in natural environments calms the nervous system - lowering cortisol and heart rate, supporting the parasympathetic “rest and digest” response, and restoring a sense of balance in body and mind.¹
Even short, mindful contact with trees, soil and sky can reduce physiological markers of stress and anxiety, helping us arrive more present, more regulated, and more open to therapeutic process aiding stress relief and a multitude of psychological and physical symptoms. ²
My therapy room is set within the natural setting of a Woodland park in St Albans allowing clients who wish, to take their session into the forest and fields, within the elements, seasons, cacophony of sounds and resplendent beauty that awaits.
Clients report being able to speak more easily with their senses piqued and mind and body soothed.
Nature is not a simply a backdrop here but becomes your quiet co-therapist
Woodland Park, St. Albans
Walk and Talk Sessions are available in all season and in all weather
Why Choose Walk and Talk Sessions
Within the dynamic sounds, colours and textures surrounding clients also say that nature provides metaphor for personal discovery – the decaying apples denoting a winter season in a new mother’s life allowing acceptance to land within herself knowing she is in a phase that is part of a broader cycle that belongs and has meaning. A friendly dog that comes over as a client explores the absence of nourishing social connections and sees that this comes in many forms and outside of the conventional social pressure they imagine.
Clients are able to settle into insight and wisdom, real time, and in amongst the unfolding story of the natural world.
What to Expect in Walk and Talk Therapy Session
Sessions last 50-mins to 1-hr and suitable clothing is required.
We can walk in all weathers and seasons and can adapt routes to physical limitations and individual preferences.
Full briefing and practical information provided prior to your sessions.
References
1 Hansen, M. M., Jones, R., & Tocchini, K. (2017). Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and nature therapy: A state-of-the-art review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(8), 851.
2 Stigsdotter, U. K., & Grahn, P. (2011). Stressed individuals’ psychological responses to nature exposure. Landscape and Urban Planning, 102(1), 24–32.