Frequently Asked Questions

Why Running Therapy?

The mental and physical health benefits of running and walking have been demonstrated time and time again. Psychotherapy has been a primary mode of treatment for a range of mental health disorders and life adjustments. We are taking the two and combining them to maximize your experience and potential for change!

Do I have to be a runner TO PARTICIPATE??

Nope! To participate in running/ walking sessions, there is absolutely NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Your pace will be determined as we take the initial steps and identify your treatment goals.

Will EVERY Session Be a Running or Walking Session?

One of the most important aspects of running/ walking therapy will be the development of your new relationship with your body. Furthermore, one of the shifting dynamics of this relationship will be a newly defined attunement to the needs of your body from moment to moment. In the event that your body is communicating a need for rest (due to a variety of reasons), we will support your request for an office visit whenever necessary throughout treatment.

WHERE WILL WE WALK/ Run?

There are several options for walking/ running routes, depending upon your interest and comfort. Safety measures and plans for protecting your privacy will be reviewed prior to leaving the office. If you would prefer to walk/ run indoors (or if it is too cold/ rainy/ windy/ snowy!), we have two treadmills available in the office suite!

How are Sessions Structured?

The initial portion of our visit will take place within the office and consist of a review of events and current goals for the session. Run/ walk sessions will take approximately 40 minutes of the visit, and will focus on mindfulness, reprocessing, coping, and action planning. Upon return to the office, stretching and wrap-up will lead us toward the conclusion of the visit. Our model is flexible and always shifting to match the needs of each individual client. Regular feedback is solicited in order to ensure that clients are getting what they need!

How often will we meet?

Frequency of sessions will be based upon our treatment needs and symptoms, and will be collaboratively determined during your initial assessment. Typically, sessions occur once every 1-2 weeks during the initial portion of treatment. Treatment may be brief (8 sessions or less) or longer term, depending upon your goals and progress.

What do I wear?

Whatever you are comfortable in! We will adjust our pace to suit your suit! If body image insecurity or low self-esteem around your appearance are concerns that you possess, what better place to start than there?! These details will be discussed during initial visits, and will be used as tools for assessment and problem-solving as we move forward together.

Is This a Training Session for Running or walking?

No! This is your THERAPY session; the only training here is your brain training! Hit your splits on your own time… our concern is providing you with quality care while you move. Your happy pace may not be your fastest one. A timer will only be used to track the session and keep to our allotted time. We will be “running” at a comfortable conversation pace and talking while we do.

How does it work?

Many people are hesitant about starting psychotherapy. What will it be like? What will he/ she (the clinician) be like? Will it be awkward/ uncomfortable? Would I benefit from therapy?

Running/ walking therapy provides a unique fusion of movement and psychotherapy in a manner that transcends traditional talk therapy. Clients are working side by side with their clinician, experiencing the benefits of exercise on their brains, and processing problems and conflicts occurring in their lives. This form of treatment is invaluable for individuals who experience anxiety, depression, body image concerns, low self-esteem, and a range of other concerns or stressors. Let us help you to literally and figuratively move through your challenges today. It will move you.  

Where do I start?

Submit an inquiry online or reach out via phone to get started today (see upper left portion of the screen: “Contact Us”). Your initial phone contact will serve as a brief screening, and then more detailed paperwork will be sent to you outlining expectations and details of your rights as a patient. Your first session will serve as an assessment of whether we are able to provide the services you are seeking.