Movement Therapy

What is Movement Therapy?

Movement therapy is the same as any other counselling session, except it takes place outside amongst nature instead of in a counselling room. The same counselling and psychotherapy techniques are used, and the same rules, ethics & confidentiality apply, it’s just outside. And ideally we’ll be getting our bodies moving for some, if not all, of the session.

How does it work?

The connection between body and mind has been scientifically proven time and time again. Combining counselling and psychotherapy techniques with physical movement helps to work through your problems more effectively. The act of movement and the inspiration gained from being outside, can help facilitate talking and speed up the therapeutic process. It also has the more general benefit of boosting low mood.

We may spend a large part of the session sitting on a bench, or have just a short casual walk. Or, in some cases, you may feel that you want to spend the majority of the session walking or running. The amount of exercise covered during the session is not important. As long as we’re connecting the body, mind and the outside, that's all that matters.

Although some people prefer to have the majority of sessions outside, usually, the very first session will take place in the normal counselling setting. This will give us a chance to discuss the upcoming sessions and how they’ll work, and to check we're happy to work together.  We may decide that on some occasions we will have a therapy session inside as it’s more suitable. It’s OK to switch between the two.

Whether we’re inside or outside, we'll always go at your pace, both physically and emotionally. The sessions are confidential, without judgement, and in line with the BACP code of ethics.

Who is it for?

Counselling and psychotherapy can benefit everyone, and therefore so can movement therapy. These sessions can be tailored regardless of fitness level. All you need is at least a curiosity about this type of therapy. If it's not for you, we can always head back inside. 

What if it rains?

If it rains we will agree to either head inside, move the session to a different day, or we’ll zip up our raincoats and face the elements.

What if I see someone I know?

People are sometimes worried about this, but we will agree at the beginning what you’d like us to do in the unlikely event this happens. I can be your personal trainer, a friend, or a colleague. It’s up to you. And we’ll always agree on an outdoor space where you feel the likelihood of this is minimised if you’re concerned.

Take your first step...

About me

I am a fully qualified counsellor & psychotherapist, registered with the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). 

Location

My traditional therapy practice is located in the centre of Bristol, but movement therapy can take place in a selection of outdoor spaces around the city.

Fees

You can find out more about my pricing structure here.

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