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Information for GPs: Supporting Your Patients with Walk and Talk Therapy
At Walking Session, we specialize in phone-based walk and talk therapy, a unique approach that combines the benefits of physical movement with evidence-based psychological support. Our service is designed to help your patients thrive in therapy, offering an affordable and accessible solution with no wait times.
Why Refer to Walking Session?
As psychologists, we understand the challenges many patients face when it comes to engaging with therapy in traditional settings. Walk and talk therapy provides an alternative that not only enhances mental well-being but also integrates seamlessly into a patient’s daily life. By referring to Walking Session, you can offer your patients a scientifically-backed, convenient option that supports both mind and body
How Walk and Talk Therapy Can Help Your Patients
Walk and talk therapy is grounded in research that shows the mental health benefits of walking. Here’s why it works:
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Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress: Walking increases endorphin production, reduces stress hormones, and enhances mood. A landmark study by Bratman et al. (2015) at Stanford University found that walking in nature specifically decreases rumination—a key factor in depression.
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Enhances Cognitive Function: Research by Oppezzo & Schwartz (2014) demonstrated that walking boosts creative thinking and problem-solving, which can make therapy sessions more productive and engaging for patients.
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Improves Engagement: For patients who feel uncomfortable in office-based therapy, the act of walking while talking can reduce anxiety, making it easier to open up. The physical movement helps regulate emotions, particularly for those dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress.
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Applicable for a Range of Conditions: Our approach is particularly effective for patients with anxiety, mood disorders, or those who struggle with traditional therapy settings. The non-confrontational environment of walking while talking helps patients feel at ease, which promotes more open and honest communication.
Affordable and Accessible for All Patients
We understand that cost and access are significant barriers to mental health care. That’s why Walking Session offers affordable therapy rates, ensuring that your patients can receive the support they need without financial strain. Additionally, we have no wait times, so your patients can start therapy as soon as they are ready.
Nationwide Availability
Because our service is phone-based, we can offer therapy to patients anywhere in Australia. Whether they live in rural or urban areas, our psychologists are available to support them with a simple phone call. This flexibility means that patients can attend therapy at a time and place that suits them best, even during a walk in their own neighborhood.
Flexible, Convenient, and Effective
Walk and talk therapy is not just another alternative—it’s a proven method that helps patients engage more deeply with therapy while benefiting from the physical and emotional boost that walking provides. Sessions can be scheduled to fit around your patients' lives, making it a convenient solution for busy schedules.
How to Refer Your Patients
We’ve made the referral process straightforward for GPs. You can refer patients to Walking Session by:
For convenience, you can access our referral form here which will allow you to upload your client referral and Mental Health Care Plan.
Once we have your clients details we will take it from there and make sure we get in touch with them and book their first session.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to discuss a referral, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly at:
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Phone: (02) 4214 8728
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Email: admin@walkingsession.com.au