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Walking the Talk

Writer's picture: StephenStephen

Updated: Dec 6, 2024

Why Walk and Talk Therapy is such an important approach for men

Despite the conversations around men’s mental health changing, many of us still struggle with how to express our feelings and seek help, particularly when dealing with trauma. The reasons are numerous, and clearly discussed in Susanna Bennet's research around barriers for men accessing professional support. Traditional approaches can often feel intimidating, leading many men to avoid seeking support altogether and we need to look differently at the environment in which therapy is delivered. This is where my walk and talk approach to therapy comes in, providing a more relaxed environment for men to engage. Supported by research from the British Psychological Society’s (BPS) 2022 Briefing Paper, 'Psychological Interventions to Help Male Adults', a walk and talk approach utilises the power of forward-movement to allow men to feel less intimidated in opening up and support men in building resilience - combining activity and human connection.


A man walking alone
Photo by @gilly_photography
Understanding Trauma in Men

Men often face pressures from society that discourage emotional expression. From an early age, many of us are taught to prioritise strength and stoicism, leading to a tendency to internalise our struggles. Research shows that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, often waiting until crises arise, which can prolong suffering and is one of the factors behind the disproportionate rates of male suicide.


In the little-researched area of male-friendly approaches, the BPS’s 2022 Briefing Paper emphasises the importance of accessible and effective psychological interventions, particularly for men who may be reluctant to engage in conventional therapy. Recognising the unique challenges that men face is essential for developing effective therapeutic approaches that encourage healing without labelling them as ‘ill’. This is why changing the language and the 'branding' around male mental health is key.


The Walk and Talk Approach

Walk and talk therapy combines the benefits of physical exercise with the therapeutic process. This is supported by recent research into the role of physical exercise in treatment for PTSD and CPTSD. By conducting sessions outdoors, I find that men I work with often feel more relaxed and open; reducing the anxiety that can accompany traditional therapy settings. This approach encourages natural conversation, giving them the freedom to explore their thoughts while moving - and this can feel less daunting than sitting opposite someone in a room.


Walking can be an incredibly powerful tool to help you process difficult memories. Just like the eye movements in EMDR therapy, the natural rhythm of walking offers a type of bilateral stimulation. This movement gently activates both sides of the brain, helping us revisit and reframe tough experiences. It’s not just a physical exercise but a way to engage the part of the brain that supports emotional regulation, making it easier for us to respond to challenging memories.


On a more practical level, walking can make you feel grounded and balanced, offering a kind of steady support that lets difficult feelings surface in a more manageable way. Many people find it tough to put emotions into words, especially when they’re working through trauma. I find it amazing how something as simple as a walk can contribute to both my mental clarity and my emotional stability, making it easier for me to face things that might otherwise feel overwhelming.


Two men talking on a jetty in the Lake District
Photo by @ianwoodphotography
Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy

The benefits of walk and talk therapy extend beyond simply creating a comfortable atmosphere. Physical movement serves as a catalyst for emotional release and cognitive processing. Studies have shown that exercise can increase the production of neurotrophic factors that support brain health and memory, helping people in making sense of their trauma memories. As clients walk, they often find their minds clearer, leading to deeper insights and breakthroughs that might be harder to achieve while seated.


Being side by side during the walk creates a sense of equality between and my clients. This position can reduce feelings of vulnerability and enhance openness, fostering an environment where the men I work with feel more comfortable sharing their experiences. The shared activity of walking transforms the therapeutic relationship into one of collaboration, emphasising that we are working (and walking) together toward healing.


The outdoor setting itself can help alleviate the pressure often associated with discussing sensitive topics. Nature itself has restorative properties and studies show that spending time in natural environments can significantly lower stress levels and promote emotional well-being. This aligns perfectly with the goals of trauma therapy, allowing clients to process their experiences in a supportive, calming context.


First-Hand Evidence

I’ve seen firsthand how this approach can transform lives. One client, who had been grappling with the trauma of loss, initially struggled to articulate his feelings in traditional sessions. However, during our walks, he found himself opening up about his experiences in a way he hadn’t anticipated. The combination of movement and conversation helped him process his grief more effectively, leading to a significant reduction in his anxiety.


Another client shared that the outdoor setting made him feel less trapped by his emotions, allowing him to confront difficult topics with greater ease. He expressed that he often felt more comfortable discussing sensitive issues while walking, as if the physical movement helped to “unstick” his thoughts.


Conclusion

The walk and talk therapy approach offers a really effective alternative for men dealing with trauma. Although it is well-supported by evidence, for me, it emphasises the importance of creating a comfortable and dynamic environment for men to heal. By incorporating movement into the therapeutic process, men can become empowered to confront their emotions and navigate their journeys toward recovery - without the stigma often attached to seeking mental health support.


If you’re a man struggling with trauma or know someone who is, consider exploring more active approaches like walk and talk therapy. Together, we can redefine how we approach mental health and create spaces where healing can truly take place.


If you would like to find out about how we could work together outdoors, click the link below.


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