Author: Shannon Johnson, Media Specialist | TrueWellness
What if taking care of your mental health started with something as simple as a walk?
“Instead of sitting on a couch in our office, we have the option to go for a walk while we talk,” said Alexis McDonald, MS, LPC and owner of Intentional Minds Mental Health Center in Eau Claire. The private practice provides mental health services for children, teens, and adults, with support for concerns including anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, and eating disorders.
The Walk and Talk idea sprouted through personal experience.
“I see the personal benefit from it, how much it impacts my day and my mental health,” said McDonald.
So, how does this Walk and Talk Program compare to traditional styles of counseling? McDonald says, for some, it may be easier to open up to someone side by side. Not to mention, the outdoors have a lot to offer.
“We notice the feel of the sun on the skin,” said McDonald. “We can hear the birds chirping. It’s grounding in the moment.”
During these sessions, McDonald said it’s also an opportunity to practice mindfulness, something clients can take with them when walking on their own.
Walk-and-talk therapy isn’t for everyone or every situation, McDonald explained, but it can offer a more relaxed approach to mental health care. For those who feel nervous about traditional therapy, simply being outdoors may make the experience feel less clinical and more approachable.
Movement can also be a small step toward better overall well-being. You don’t need an elaborate workout routine to get started. Sometimes, a short walk is enough to create space to slow down, reconnect with your surroundings, and check in with yourself.
Finding the Right Fit
At Intentional Minds, McDonald emphasizes the importance of finding a therapist whose personality and approach feel right for you. With a team of four therapists, the practice offers a variety of communication styles to meet different needs.
Interested in learning more about Walk and Talk or other services? Visit Intentional Minds Mental Health Center to explore the program and connect with the team.