Lantern Path Counselling
Cory Stevens, RCC
Walk & Talk Therapy in Burnaby, BC
Spending time outdoors in green spaces has well-documented benefits for mental and physical health. Walk & Talk therapy brings counselling out of the office and into the open air, moving through some of the gorgeous natural spaces Burnaby offers as we work through what’s on your mind.
Walk & Talk sessions take place on accessible, constructed paths in Burnaby, generally near the Production-Way SkyTrain station. Sessions are 50 or 80 minutes in length, available Monday through Friday, and may be offered to new or existing clients.
What Is Walk & Talk Therapy?
Walk & Talk therapy is counselling that takes place while walking outdoors rather than sitting in an office. It’s the same therapeutic work with the same care and focus, but in a different setting.
For some people, movement makes it easier to talk. The side-by-side quality of walking can feel less intense than face-to-face conversation, and the rhythm of walking can help regulate the nervous system in ways that support the therapeutic process. Being outdoors can reduce the clinical feel of therapy and create a more natural space to reflect and open up.
Walk & Talk is not exercise therapy or nature therapy, though the movement and fresh air may be welcome benefits. It’s simply counselling offered in an environment that may work better for you.
Walk & Talk Might Be a Good Fit If You...
- Find traditional office settings constraining, overstimulating, or anxiety-provoking
- Are neurodivergent and find that movement helps you think and communicate
- Feel more at ease talking when you’re moving rather than sitting still
- Are drawn to the idea of being outdoors and want therapy to reflect that
- Are already a client and would like to try an alternative session format
Walk & Talk is not suitable for every presentation or every session. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, we can talk it through during a consultation or existing session.
What to Expect
Sessions meet at one of three routes in Burnaby, each with its own character: from a paved urban path near the SkyTrain, to a quiet constructed trail through dense green space, to a residential loop with access to a small neighbourhood park. You choose the route that appeals to you.
You set the walking pace. We can slow down, stop, or rest at any point. The session belongs to you.
Before your first Walk & Talk session, you’ll receive a Session Information document with everything you need to know: routes, meeting points, directions, parking, transit access, and what to bring.
How Do We Get Started?
Walk & Talk sessions are available Monday through Friday. If you’re a new client, you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and see if this format feels like a good fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Walk & Talk Therapy
Do I need to be physically fit to do Walk & Talk therapy?
No. Sessions happen at a relaxed, conversational pace on accessible, constructed paths. You set the walking pace, and we can slow down, stop, or rest at any point. If you have mobility considerations or health concerns that might affect your ability to walk, please mention them when booking and we can discuss whether Walk & Talk is a good fit for you.
What happens if the weather is bad?
A little rain isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker. I’m prepared to go ahead in light rain and can bring spare umbrellas if needed. If conditions are genuinely too poor, either of us can decide to cancel or convert the session to a telehealth appointment. If I’m the one making that call, I’ll give you as much notice as possible.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. I recommend caution if you’re considering wearing sandals, heels, or anything that may be difficult to walk in. In spring and fall especially, layers are a good idea since Burnaby weather can shift during a session.
What if I run into someone I know?
This can happen sometimes. On the rare occasion this comes up, you would have full control over how that moment is handled. You can introduce me however you like, or not at all. I’ll follow your lead and will not identify you as a client or acknowledge that we’re in a therapy session. Before your first Walk & Talk session, it’s a good idea for us to talk through your preferences so you feel prepared.
Is Walk & Talk covered by extended health insurance?
Walk & Talk sessions are billed as standard counselling sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). If your extended health plan covers RCC services, Walk & Talk sessions should be covered in the same way. Coverage varies by provider, so I recommend confirming with your insurer if you’re unsure.
Can I switch back to in-person or online sessions?
Absolutely. Walk & Talk is one format option among several. You can return to in-person or telehealth sessions at any time, for any reason. No explanation needed. Some clients mix formats depending on the weather, how they’re feeling, or what they want to focus on in a given session.
Is Walk & Talk available for relationship counselling?
At this time, Walk & Talk sessions are offered for individual counselling only.
Ready to Talk?
It’s easy to get started, with no commitment required. It’s important that you feel welcome and like we are a good fit before you decide anything.
You can give me a call or send an email to get started:
If you have any questions about my approach, focus areas, or how I can help you, please reach out! You are welcome to email or call me with times that work for you, and I can book a consultation session or a first session.
- Email: cory@lanternpath.ca
- Phone: (873) 503-2171
