How Phone-Based Walk Therapy Sessions Work in Australia
-
Therapy While You Walk
You’ll have your therapy session over the phone or in person while walking in a location that feels comfortable for you. Whether it’s a park, your neighborhood, or a quiet trail, we’ll guide you through the conversation as you move.
-
Booking a Session
Booking is easy, and if needed, your GP can provide a referral. Choose a time that works for you, and we’ll handle the rest.
-
Prepare for Your Session
On the day of your session, wear comfortable clothes and bring some water—simple things to help you feel at ease. We’ll focus on your goals and well-being throughout the session, ensuring you feel supported.
-
Safety First
For outdoor sessions, we take safety seriously. Your psychologist will work with you to ensure the environment is safe, so you can focus on your journey to better mental health.
How do I book a Walking Session?
Booking your Walking Session is quick and easy! Here’s how:
-
Call Us: Reach out to us at (02) 4214 8728 to speak directly with our team and book your session.
-
Book Online: Prefer booking online? Simply click here to use our easy online booking system and schedule your Walking Session in just a few clicks.
We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible, so you can focus on your well-being!
Are there different types of sessions available (e.g., initial consultation, follow-up sessions)?
Yes! We offer a variety of session types to meet your needs, including:
-
Initial Consultation: This is your first session, where we’ll discuss your goals, needs, and how our walking sessions work. It’s a chance to get to know each other and create a plan for moving forward.
-
Follow-Up Sessions: After the initial consultation, we’ll schedule follow-up sessions to continue working together, focusing on your progress and well-being.
Whether you’re just starting or continuing your journey, we’ll support you every step of the way.
Do I need a referral from my GP to participate in Walking Sessions?
No, you don’t usually need a referral from your GP to join our Walking Sessions. However, if you’d like to access Medicare rebates, you can ask your GP for a Mental Health Care Plan, which provides up to 10 subsidized sessions. This can make therapy more affordable and accessible for you.
Whether you have a referral or not, we’re here to support you on your journey to better mental health.
How does the referral process work, if required?
If a referral is needed, here’s how the process works:
-
Visit Your GP: Discuss your mental health needs with your GP. They’ll assess your situation and, if appropriate, provide you with a referral and a Mental Health Care Plan.
-
Choose Your Psychologist: You can select a psychologist that feels right for you. With this referral, you’ll be able to access Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions.
-
Out-of-Pocket Costs: For sessions covered by a Mental Health Care Plan, the out-of-pocket expense is $77.65 per session after the rebate.
To have your referral made out to Walking Session, provide your GP with the following details:
-
Name of Psychologist: [Insert Psychologist Name]
-
Walking Session
-
Address: PO Box 407, Figtree NSW 2525
-
Email: admin@walkingsession.com.au
-
Fax: (02) 4216 9438
We’re here to help make the referral process smooth and straightforward!
Where will the Walking Sessions take place?
Your Walking Session will take place outdoors, either in a location of your choice or in a recommended area that’s comfortable and suitable for therapy. Since the session happens over the phone, you have the flexibility to choose a spot that feels right for you—whether it’s a peaceful park, a quiet neighborhood, or your favorite walking path.
Getting Ready for the Day
We recommend taking a stroll in the area you plan to walk beforehand, just to make sure you feel comfortable and familiar with it. On the day of your session, simply wear something comfortable, bring some water, and get ready to focus on your well-being.
What should I wear or bring for the session?
For your Walking Session, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for walking outdoors. Make sure you feel relaxed and ready to move. It’s also a great idea to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and any other personal items that help you feel comfortable, like sunglasses or a hat on sunny days.
We want you to feel at ease during the session, so dress for comfort and enjoy the walk!
How long does a typical walking session last?
A typical Walking Session lasts around 50 minutes to an hour. This gives us plenty of time for a meaningful, focused conversation while you enjoy the added benefits of walking outdoors. It’s just the right amount of time to work on your goals without feeling rushed.
What happens during the session?
During a Walking Session, you’ll have a therapy conversation over the phone while walking outdoors. The focus is on your goals and well-being, and you can talk about anything that’s important to your mental health and personal growth. Your psychologist will guide the conversation, offering support, insights, and strategies to help you navigate challenges and make positive changes in your life.
It’s a relaxed, natural way to work through your thoughts while staying active.
What safety measures are in place during outdoor sessions ?
Your safety is our top priority during outdoor Walking Sessions. Here’s how we ensure a comfortable and secure experience:
-
Weather Flexibility: If it rains or if you’d prefer, you always have the option to stay at home for your session.
-
Emergency Preparedness: We’ll collect emergency contact information before your session in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
-
Privacy and Data Security: Your personal information is stored securely. We’ll discuss privacy and data security in detail during your first session, so you know exactly how your information is protected.
We want you to feel safe and comfortable every step of the way.
Can I use face-to-face telehealth instead of a phone session for walking therapy?
Yes, if you prefer, you can choose face-to-face telehealth for your Walking Therapy session. This option allows you to connect with your psychologist via video call, so you can see and interact with them while still enjoying the benefits of walking outdoors. It’s a great way to maintain that personal connection during therapy, even from a distance.
IF YOU STILL HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR PROCESS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL US ON (02) 42 14 8728 SEND AN EMAIL TO ADMIN@WALKINGSESSION.COM.AU FOR A CONFIDENTIAL DISCUSSION.