Walk and Talk Therapy for Teens (13+) and Adults at Fort Steilacoom Park
Walk and Talk Therapy is an evidence-based, movement supported form of therapy that combines traditional talk therapy with gentle walking outdoors. This approach supports both mental and physical regulation, helping clients feel calmer, more present, and more open during sessions. Walk and Talk Therapy is offered for teenagers ages 13 and older and adults at Fort Steilacoom Park in Lakewood, Washington.
What Is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walk and Talk Therapy combines proven therapy approaches with gentle movement outdoors, creating a calm and supportive space to talk, reflect, and heal. Research shows that walking can reduce stress hormones, improve mood, and support emotional regulation, which can enhance the effectiveness of therapy sessions.
Instead of sitting face‑to‑face in an office, sessions take place side‑by‑side while walking. This often feels less intimidating and can make it easier to talk about difficult thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy
Walk and Talk Therapy may be especially helpful for teens and adults who:
Experience anxiety, stress, or emotional overwhelm
Feel uncomfortable or “stuck” in traditional office based or telehealth therapy
Have difficulty sitting still or maintaining focus
Are processing trauma, life transitions, or relational challenges
Benefit from grounding, movement, and time in nature
Walking outdoors supports the mind and body connection. It can increase feelings of safety, clarity, and emotional balance during therapy.
Walk and Talk Therapy for Teens (13+)
Adolescents often respond well to movement based therapy. Walking can reduce pressure, ease nervous system activation, and create a more natural environment for conversation. Walk and Talk Therapy can support teens with anxiety, emotional regulation, identity development, peer or family stress, and major life transitions.
Sessions are paced appropriately and tailored to each teen’s developmental needs, comfort level, and therapeutic goals.
Walk and Talk Therapy for Adults
For adults, Walk and Talk Therapy offers a flexible and grounded alternative to traditional therapy. It can be particularly helpful for individuals working through anxiety, burnout, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, or personal growth. Many adults find that walking helps them think more clearly, access emotions more easily, and feel less self conscious during sessions.
Location: Fort Steilacoom Park
8714 87th Ave SW
Lakewood, WA 98498
Fort Steilacoom Park offers paved walking paths, open green space, and
a calm natural environment that supports grounding and emotional regulation.
Exact meeting details are provided after scheduling.
What to Expect During a Session
A traditional therapy session conducted while walking at a comfortable pace
Evidence based and trauma‑informed therapeutic support
A collaborative and client centered approach
Flexibility to pause or sit as needed
Weather appropriate planning and clear communication
Walk and Talk Therapy is always adapted to your comfort, safety, and clinical needs.
Is Walk and Talk Therapy Evidence‑Based?
Yes! Walk and Talk Therapy is grounded in well established research showing that physical movement, exposure to nature, and bilateral stimulation can support emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and enhance cognitive processing. When combined with licensed psychotherapy and evidence based modalities, this approach can be both effective and clinically appropriate for many clients.
