Hiking Therapy

Now offering 50 minute hiking therapy sessions in Wilsonville, and Sherwood OR.

Connect with Nature while Connecting Within

What Is Hiking Therapy?

Hiking Therapy (also known as “Walk and Talk Therapy”) is similar to traditional psychotherapy except that it takes place outdoors while walking in nature, rather than in an office setting. It combines the benefits of physical activity and connecting with nature within the therapeutic process.

Where do these sessions take place?

I have two locations where I can meet clients for Hiking/Walk and Talk Therapy:

  1. Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge:

    19255 SW Pacific Hwy

    Sherwood, OR 97140

  2. Graham Oaks Nature Park, Coyote Way and Tonquin Trail Loop

    11825 SW Wilsonville Rd.

    Wilsonville, OR 97070

How Long is a session and what can I expect?

Sessions are 50 minutes in length. We will meet in the parking lot at the agreed upon trailhead at the session time. Please feel free to arrive a couple of minutes early to use the facilities if needed, there is a restroom next to the parking lot at each location.

Before walking, we will begin with some somatic exercises, designed to connect the mind and body, aiming to release physical and emotional tension as well as mindfully grounding to the earth.

The Tualatin River loop in Sherwood is just over 3 miles. Likely we will not be able to complete the entire 3 mile loop within the allotted session time and will need to turn around halfway through the session time, retracing the path we hiked out on. A few fast-paced walkers may be able to complete this loop, but completing the loop is not the point of this type of therapy. Being in nature and moving at a comfortable pace, whatever that looks like for you, should be the focus of this type of therapeutic process. It is important for me to note that I let my clients set the pace both in their emotional exploration and also on the trail.

The Coyote trail loop in Wilsonville is just over 2 miles and takes an average walker about 44 minutes to complete. It is more likely that slow to average walkers will complete this loop during the session. I can adjust to faster walkers with this trail as well and take an extra side trail for example, to add some extra distance for those who need it.

What are the Benefits of Hiking Therapy?

  1. Reduced anxiety and stress: The combination of physical activity and focused conversation can significantly reduce anxiety and stress levels.

  2. Improved mood: Exercise is known to boost mood, and combining it with therapy can enhance its effects.

  3. Increased creativity and problem-solving: Walking can stimulate creativity and help you approach challenges from a fresh perspective.

  4. Enhanced connection with nature: Spending time outdoors can promote a sense of well-being and connection to the natural world.

  5. Greater comfort and openness: Some people find it easier to open up and share their thoughts while walking and talking compared to a traditional therapy setting.

  6. Improved physical health: Regular walking offers numerous physical health benefits, such improved physical fitness and increased energy levels.