Walk & Talk Therapy
Walk It Out. Talk It Through.
Sometimes the best way to move forward is simply to start walking—and talking.
It began with Covid. Clients wanted a safe place to talk privately - perhaps about the people in their home, or just to have their own secure place to open up about what was going on with themselves.
What we learned is that movement is beneficial if not essential, for mental health. These “Walk and Talk” therapy sessions gave our clients the benefits of physical exercise combined with the support of speaking with a professional therapist.
Walk it out.
Walk & Talk Sessions are one of the ways we meet with clients. These appointments are conducted over the phone while we walk outdoors in our respective locations. Walking is an excellent alternative to meeting indoors or online and is great for mental and physical health! It can also feel more comfortable than meeting face to face for some.
Walk & Talk FAQs
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Walk and talk therapy is a form of counselling that takes place outdoors while walking in nature while talking with your therapist on the phone, instead of sitting in an office. It combines the benefits of movement, fresh air, and conversation.
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Rather than sitting face-to-face, we walk and talk in separate locations over the phone. Many people find it feels more natural, less intense, and easier to open up—especially when talking about difficult topics.
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Sessions typically take place in quiet outdoor spaces such as local parks or trails. We recommend you choose a route that is safe, relatively private, and suited to your comfort level.
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No problem. Walk and talk therapy is flexible—you go at your pace, take breaks, or even sit on benches when needed. Your comfort always comes first.
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Yes. For many people, it can be just as effective—or even more so. Walking can help reduce stress, regulate emotions, and make it easier to process thoughts.
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If you run into someone you know while out walking and talking, simply signal to them that you’re on the phone or take a moment to pause our call to let them know and then carry on your way!
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We can switch to an indoor phone or virtual session, or meet indoors at the office if that option is available. We’ll decide together what works best.
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Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the weather. You may also want water, sunscreen, an umbrella, or layers depending on the season. You will need your phone (ensure it is fully charged) and good quality headphones (airpods, ear buds, or headphones). Ensure you are still able to hear sounds around you and be safe! Look and listen for cars and other dangers - Safety first!
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It can be especially helpful for people who:
Feel stuck or overwhelmed
Struggle to open up in traditional settings
Experience anxiety, stress, or low mood
Benefit from movement or being outdoors
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In most cases, yes—coverage is based on the therapist’s credentials, not the setting. Check with your provider to confirm.
Our Walk & Talk Therapy Team
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Judy Hayward ~ Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist (MSW)
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Diane Cimetta ~ Registered Psychotherapist
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Carly Dukaczewski ~ Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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Victoria Bello ~ Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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Mahira Zakiuddin ~ Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist (MSW)
Couples, Families, Adults, Youth (12+)
In-Person & Virtual Sessions
Services offered in English, Urdu & Hindi*
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Délia Bagi ~ Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Children, Teens, Adults, EMDR, Couples
Virtual Sessions Only
Services offered in English & Hungarian*
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Amy Bartja ~ Social Worker, Psychotherapist (MSW) Intern
Couples, Families, Teens, Children, Adults
In-Person & Virtual Sessions
*Affordable Therapy / Sliding Scale
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Ashley Wall ~ Social Worker, Psychotherapist (MSW) Intern
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Melissa Scheichl ~ Founder & Lead Therapist