Discover the benefits of Walk & Talk counselling sessions conducted in one of the many serene gardens the Dandenongs have to offer!

Walk and Talk Therapy

Enjoy the beauty of some of Melbourne’s most serene gardens while talking through your issues with a healthy dose of low impact exercise.

2 Locations; The Olinda Botanical Gardens and The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Experience a new and innovative approach to counselling with our Walk and Talk Therapy sessions at the stunning Olinda Botanical Gardens and Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. At Root Down, I combine the therapeutic benefits of nature with professional counselling to offer a truly holistic wellness experience.

Why Choose Walk and Talk Therapy?

In today's fast-paced world, the pressures of daily life can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck. Traditional therapy settings can sometimes amplify these feelings, making it difficult to open up or process emotions. Walk and Talk Therapy offers a refreshing alternative—one that seamlessly integrates the healing power of nature with the supportive presence of a trained counsellor.

What is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and Talk Therapy is exactly what it sounds like: a chance to engage in meaningful conversation with a qualified counsellor while strolling through the beautiful, tranquil gardens of Olinda or Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. This isn’t about vigorous exercise; the focus is on the conversation, with walking as a secondary, gentle activity that enhances the overall therapeutic experience.

Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy:

  • Mental and Physical Wellbeing: Walking in nature has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, and improve overall mental clarity. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and light physical activity can energise and refresh the mind.

  • Enhanced Problem Solving: Movement often facilitates psychological processing. Walking side-by-side can help shift a sense of ‘stuckness,’ allowing for new perspectives and creative solutions to emerge.

  • A Calming Environment: The natural beauty of the gardens provides a soothing backdrop that can make it easier to open up about difficult emotions or challenges. The outdoor setting also helps alleviate the intensity that can sometimes arise in a traditional office setting.

  • Improved Sleep and Self-Esteem: Even gentle walking is beneficial for physical health, promoting better sleep cycles and boosting self-esteem through the simple act of taking action.

  • Personalised Sessions: Whether you prefer quiet reflection or a more in-depth conversation, each session is tailored to your individual goals and needs. We can walk in silence, discuss specific issues, or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of being in nature together.

Who Can Benefit?

Walk and Talk Therapy is ideal for anyone looking for a different kind of therapeutic experience—especially those who might feel constrained or uncomfortable in a traditional office setting. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or simply seeking a new perspective, our Walk and Talk sessions provide a supportive, non-clinical environment that fosters wellbeing and personal growth.

How to Book a Session

Booking a session is easy. Simply fill out the online contact form and book a free 15 minute discovery call today. Each session is a one-on-one experience, ensuring personalised attention and support from a qualified counsellor.

At Root Down, I believe in the power of nature to heal, inspire, and transform. Join me for a Walk and Talk Therapy session and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life. Let’s walk together, side by side, toward a brighter future.

Our Walk and Talk venues

Located in the Dandenong Ranges

40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD

  • The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

    Address: 1A Sherbrooke Rd, Sherbrooke VIC 3789

    The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, nestled within the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People, offers a serene and picturesque setting for Walk and Talk Therapy. Located on the historic Burnham Beeches estate, these gardens are renowned for their beautiful water features and diverse landscape.

    As you stroll beneath the towering Mountain Ash trees, you’ll encounter a variety of linking paths, each leading to unique spots such as the tranquil lake with its charming boathouse, or the peaceful gazebo that houses a captivating sculpture by Mark Stoner. The ever-changing blooms and foliage provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and conversation.

    Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Christmas Day and during severe weather), the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is an ideal location to connect with nature and explore personal growth in a peaceful, outdoor environment.

  • The Olinda Botanical Gardens

    Address: The Georgian Rd, Olinda VIC 3788

    The Olinda Botanical Gardens, part of the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, provides an idyllic setting for Walk and Talk Therapy amidst Victoria's premier cool-climate garden. Located on the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People, this garden is a place where natural beauty and cultural heritage come together in harmony.

    Open daily from 10 am to 4:30 pm (except on Christmas Day and during severe weather), the garden boasts breathtaking views over the Yarra Valley, complemented by an impressive array of flora, including 15,000 rhododendrons, 12,000 azaleas, 3,000 camellias, and 250,000 daffodils. The garden is a year-round delight, with seasonal blooms ensuring that each visit offers something new.

    As you explore the criss-crossing paths, you’ll encounter both native and exotic trees, and can pause at Serenity Point, where the landscape opens to reveal stunning views over the Yarra Ranges. Whether you're seeking a quiet moment of reflection or an engaging conversation, the Olinda Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful and picturesque environment for personal growth and connection.

A surprise appearance by a local during a ‘Walk & Talk’ session at the Olinda Botanical Gardens!