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  • The Practice
  • Walking Therapy
  • What is DBT?
  • Contact OPP
  • NYAD

Walking With OPP

Walking therapy is simply you and I walking and talking. It's not exercise, but many people gain physical health benefits from this style of treatment.
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Walking with OPP


What is Walking Therapy

Many researchers have been exploring the connection between the mind and body as it applies to emotional well being. In fact there is an entire field of psychology that addresses the intersection of movement and physical health on psychological health--sport psychology. The latest research on anxiety and depression highlights the critical contribution of movement in reducing symptoms. We know that movement is crucial to getting better. 

​Imagine walking therapy as a contemporary alternative to classical Freudian psychoanalysis. Meaning without laying on the couch in wait for something magical, you may engage in the therapeutic process more freely and naturally while taking in the various sensations of the environment. Walking side-by-side steers the focus away from focusing on the judgments of the provider, and can reduce feelings of vulnerability; consequently, aiding you in more rapid change. In therapy it can be difficult to face issues head on, and even evoke difficult emotions that many of us rather not feel. Walking therapy can increase mindfulness, thereby increasing creativity, energy, and motivation. 

Its not for everyone, but once people try it they often feel invigorated after session. 

Who would benefit from this?
Almost anyone. Walking therapy lends power to eliminating symptoms of severe anxiety, depression, PTSD and even grief. Walking is especially great for teens and adults who experience sadness, aggressiveness, and irritability.

Often many people choose therapy to address their life issues at a time when their feeling stuck. In a WebMD feature on walk and talk therapy by Suzanne Wright, she writes: “[m]ovement propels people forward—literally and figuratively.” Ultimately, walking therapy has the capacity to allow people to feel unstuck.
 

Check out WebMD on walk and talk therapy
Check out the Movement To Get America Walking on EveryBodyWalk.org
Check out Men's Fitness on Walking off depression
Check out Kate Hays on movement and psychology 



What if we see someone I know?

This is an issue we discuss before our first walking therapy session. However, my general philosophy is that we are just two people walking and talking. I will follow your lead. Some people opt to say a simple "hello" and continue moving forward, and others prefer to move in a different direction. We can discuss the other possible scenarios you might be thinking about in person together. Just know that whatever your preference, I will follow. 

I'm not sure I'm up for fitness. What are the benefits?

The main goal is not exercise in this type of therapy. Walking is a simple and effective intervention to improve your mood. You can set the pace. ​If you are worried about your health and or ability to participate in this type of treatment, please be sure to consult with your primary care physician to determine that you will not be risking your health by participating in walking activity. 

What if the weather is bad?

Again, I really work in a collaborative way that emphasizes your needs, health, and safety. If you are not interested in walking on a scheduled appointment, we'll simply find a way to meet in the office instead. Many people enjoy the changes in weather and opt to bring along an umbrella, winter coat, or hat and scarf. 
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