Frequently asked questions
Whether you’re looking for support for yourself or a young person, it’s understandable to have questions before you begin.
I hope these FAQs help you feel a little clearer about how therapy works and what to expect.
If anything is still unclear, you’re welcome to ask.
Traditional, indoor, face-to-face therapy isn’t for everyone. Walk-and-talk therapy is a relaxed way to engage in counselling outdoors while moving gently. Walking side by side can feel less intense without the pressure of constant eye contact can feel more comfortable and help people open up more easily to share personal thoughts and feelings. Adding movement, reconnecting with and spending time in nature brings proven mental and physical health benefits. This way of working can benefit anyone, and many neurodivergent clients and adults who enjoy active lifestyles particularly enjoy the difference.
Walk and talk therapy in nature can support a wide range of people. Sitting face-to-face in a room isn’t always comfortable. Outdoor therapy can feel much more relaxed and natural, with less pressure and the option of movement. It's particularly helpful for adults and teens experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem challenges, or life transitions. People who find traditional indoor therapy rooms overwhelming, or who feel calmer and more open outdoors, often find this approach especially beneficial.
It’s also supportive for those who enjoy a more holistic or hands-on approach, including nature-based activities, mindfulness, or “busy hands” techniques. Sessions are inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, or looking for a gentle, grounding space to explore emotions and build coping skills.
Some people find it easier to process thoughts and emotions when their hands are gently occupied during therapy. Activities like whittling, holding a stick, foraging touching leaves, or small mindful movements can help the mind focus, reduce tension, and make difficult conversations feel less overwhelming. Having “busy hands” can also support emotional regulation, grounding, and concentration, making it easier to explore feelings while staying present in the natural surroundings.
As a qualified Forest school practitioner, I can also guide you to learn about your natural environment and learn tool and crafting skills as we talk.
The Science Behind Movement & Nature
Movement plays a powerful role in supporting both mental and physical wellbeing. When we move — whether through walking, gentle exercise, or simply changing posture — we help release tension held in the body. This can reduce anxiety, stress, and low mood.
Movement also stimulates the release of “feel-good” brain chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin, helping to boost mood and promote a sense of wellbeing. Physically, it supports calmer breathing and heart rate, allowing the body to move out of a stress response and into a more regulated state.
Why this matters for therapy:
Incorporating movement into therapy — such as walk-and-talk sessions, grounding, or body-based awareness — can help clients feel safer, more present, and more connected to their emotions. It supports resilience and helps therapy feel more natural and embodied.
What’s the science behind nature and the brain?
Time spent in nature has been shown to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, slow heart rate, improve mood, concentration, and sleep. Natural environments help the brain move out of “fight or flight” and into a calmer, more regulated state.
Why this matters for therapy:
Nature supports emotional regulation, grounding, and openness — making therapy feel gentler and more effective.
Green social prescribing uses nature as part of a wellbeing plan. GPs or therapists may recommend outdoor activities such as walking, gardening, or group nature projects alongside traditional treatments to improve mental and physical health. I can work with you to support your Green prescription.
Integrative counselling and psychotherapy means I don’t rely on a single “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, I see you as a whole person — your thoughts, feelings, body, and life experiences — and carefully combine different therapeutic methods so that our work is tailored specifically to you.
This approach supports a trusting, non-judgemental relationship, helps you understand your experiences, and encourages meaningful change.
I integrate a range of therapeutic models, including:
• Person-centred therapy: Creating a safe, non-judgemental space where you feel heard and supported.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helping you understand and change unhelpful thinking patterns.
• Attachment theory: Exploring how early relationships influence current connections.
• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT): Building self-compassion and reducing self-criticism.
This blended approach, allows therapy to be both supportive and practical, with the added boost of gentle exercise and the many benefits of time in nature.
I use Zoom for our online sessions and will share a link before our first session together.
I’m neurodivergent and worried about feeling overwhelmed outdoors
Everyone’s relationship with nature is different. Our first session will be a gentle outdoor introduction so we can see how it feels for you. We can explore ways to make the experience more manageable.
If outdoor therapy doesn’t feel right, we can move online or I can signpost you to another therapist. There is no pressure.
I use a wheelchair, cane, or walker but would like movement in sessions — what can you offer?
I’m committed to working inclusively and will collaborate with you to find accessible routes, suitable pacing, and appropriate session length to make movement part of your therapy safely.
Do you work with special needs?
Yes. I spent five years as a specialist teacher for children with speech and language difficulties and supported children with a wide range of needs in mainstream settings. These included global developmental delay, processing differences, visual and hearing impairments, Down syndrome, and more.
I previously used Makaton and visual aids and, while a little rusty, I’m happy to work with alternative forms of communication.
Not currently. I hope to offer this in 2026.
Teenagers usually attend sessions alone so they can speak openly. Parents or carers may be involved through background sharing and occasional reviews. The first 'Get to Know You' session is always together with an opportunity for parents and young people to share their thoughts and experiences and ask questions. Confidentiality is respected unless there are safeguarding concerns.
I currently offer two regular locations listed on my website. These have parking available, quiet routes, natural shelter, and a bench for resting and sharing a warm drink. I’m also open to suggestions.
Standard therapy sessions are 50 minutes. Outdoor sessions include an additional 10 minutes to allow for meeting, changing footwear, settling into the walk, and sharing refreshments.
Please dress appropriately for the weather. A coat and a change of footwear are recommended as a minimum. You may also wish to bring waterproof trousers, a hat, and gloves depending on the season. A drink of water and tissues is always a good idea.
I will also bring a flask of hot water so we can enjoy a warm drink together.
If rain is forecast, we will still plan to walk and I’ll advise you to dress accordingly. I also carry an umbrella. Our locations offer natural shelter under trees or canopies. In cases of high winds, torrential rain, extreme cold, or unsafe conditions, I will contact you at least one hour in advance to arrange an online session via Zoom instead. You have the right to cancel a session (with 24 hours notice) or to move it online too if you'd rather.
I carry a flask of hot water and offer a selection of teas, coffee, and hot chocolate.
I recommend not bringing pets, as they can become a distraction. Assistance dogs are, of course, very welcome.
Sessions are a dedicated space for you. For confidentiality, safety, and focus, children cannot attend sessions. If childcare becomes difficult, please contact me in advance to rearrange. Unfortunately, sessions cannot go ahead if a child is present.
I offer blocks of sessions at reduced rates and can attend for half-day or full-day bookings depending on your needs and budget. Please contact me via the website and I’ll share relevant information and paperwork.
Payment is via bank transfer before the session. Cash payment is available by request.
Sessions are booked weekly. A minimum of six sessions is recommended to allow meaningful therapeutic work and review of progress.
To ensure open and safe exploration of the issues you bring to therapy, I maintain confidentiality and safeguarding in line with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework for Good Practice, as well as guidance from the British Psychological Society (BPS) for outdoor therapy. When working with teens and adults in further education, I may liaise with the school or college pastoral team if we feel this is appropriate for safeguarding and support.
If we encounter others during our walk, we will pause our conversation to protect your confidentiality. If we meet someone either of us knows, we will politely acknowledge them, explain that we are in a work meeting, and move on.
Exceptions to Confidentiality
Everything shared in sessions is treated as confidential except in the following circumstances:
• If the client or therapist believes that a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm or abuse
• If the client discloses serious risk of harm to themselves or others
• Suicidal intent
• A court subpoena or legal requirement to disclose information
• Terrorism-related offences
• Money laundering
• Drug trafficking
• Intent to commit a serious criminal offence or confirmation that one has occurred
• Serious substance misuse where there is immediate risk
Wherever legally possible, I will always aim to discuss any need to break confidentiality with you first.
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellations via text, phone, or email to avoid being charged the full session fee.
If you arrive late, the session cannot be extended, as this may impact other clients. Please arrive no earlier than 5 minutes before your session start time.
Please note that I am unable to provide emergency support.
If you are in crisis or feel unable to keep yourself safe, please seek immediate help:
• Call NHS 111
• Contact your GP
• Attend your local A&E
You can also contact the following 24-hour support services:
• Samaritans: 116 123
• Lifeline: 0808 808 8000
• YoungMinds / SHOUT: Text SHOUT to 85258
• Teenage Helpline: https://teenagehelpline.org.uk
I hold Public Liability, Malpractice, and Professional Indemnity Insurance with Birnbeck, and I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
In accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework, I keep brief client records (short summaries of sessions) within a secure, password-protected, encrypted cloud-based system for 7 years.
Any paper materials such as drawings, worksheets, or timelines are stored in a locked cabinet while we work together and are securely destroyed once therapy ends.
I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and comply with:
• The Data Protection Act 2018
• The UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR)