Walk and Talk Counselling

Introducing Walk & Talk Counselling with Honey

At Teen Counselling Online, I am always looking for ways to make counselling more accessible, comfortable, and effective for the young people and families I support. That’s why I am pleased to introduce a new service, Walk & Talk Counselling with my dog Honey. 

Honey is a very calm and gentle Cavapoo and already has lots of experience in working as my helping paws.

While traditional counselling in a therapy room works well for many young people, it isn’t the right fit for everyone. Some children and teenagers find it difficult to sit face to face and talk about their feelings even when online. Others may feel anxious in unfamiliar indoor settings or struggle to engage in a more formal counselling environment.

Walk & Talk Counselling offers a different approach.

What Is Walk & Talk Counselling?

Walk & Talk Counselling is available in Cheltenham and takes place outdoors in a safe and suitable location. Rather than sitting in a room or online, we walk together at a pace that feels comfortable while exploring whatever thoughts, feelings, or challenges the young person wishes to bring to the session.

Adding the companionship of a friendly, calm dog can make the experience even more welcoming. Many young people naturally feel at ease around animals and find comfort in their presence. Honey is not there to provide therapy but to offer gentle companionship, helping to create a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.

Why Am I Offering This Service?

Over recent years, I have become increasingly aware of the growing number of children and young people who are struggling with school attendance, anxiety, and social isolation.

For some young people, attending school has become overwhelming. Others spend increasing amounts of time at home due to anxiety, low mood, emotional difficulties, neurodiversity, or challenging life experiences. As a result, they can become disconnected from activities, friendships, and opportunities that support their wellbeing.

For these young people, even attending a counselling appointment can sometimes feel like a significant hurdle.

Walk & Talk Counselling provides an alternative way to access support. It offers an opportunity to leave the house, spend time outdoors, and engage in counselling in a less formal environment. For many young people, walking side by side can feel less intense than sitting opposite someone in a room, allowing conversations to develop more naturally.

The Benefits of Being Outdoors

Research and experience continue to show the positive impact that nature and outdoor environments can have on emotional wellbeing. Being outside can help young people feel calmer, more grounded, and less pressured.

Combining counselling with gentle movement and fresh air can support:

• Reduced anxiety and stress

• Improved mood and emotional regulation

• Increased confidence

• Greater engagement in the counselling process

• A sense of connection with the wider world

  
  

The addition of a friendly dog can also provide reassurance and comfort, particularly for young people who may find direct conversation challenging at first.

A Flexible and Individual Approach

Every young person is different, and counselling should reflect that.

Some may benefit from regular outdoor sessions, while others may prefer to combine Walk & Talk Counselling with online.  The service is designed to be flexible and adapted to each individual’s needs and preferences.

My aim is always to create a safe, accepting, and supportive space where young people can explore their experiences without judgement and at their own pace.

Looking Ahead

I am excited to be able to offer this new service and to provide another way for young people to access support that feels right for them.

Whether a young person is experiencing anxiety, struggling with school attendance, feeling isolated, or simply finding traditional counselling difficult to engage with, Walk & Talk Counselling with Canine Companionship may offer a gentle and supportive alternative.

If you live in Cheltenham and would like to find out more about this service or discuss whether it might be suitable for your child or teenager, please get in touch. I would be happy to answer any questions and explore how I can help.