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Therapeutic Counselling and Outdoor Therapy

Liz Taylor - Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor

Maybe you’ve tried traditional counselling before—or maybe you haven’t. But the idea of sitting in a quiet room, face-to-face with someone you don’t yet know, might feel overwhelming or even anxiety-inducing. At Breathe, I understand that pressure—and I offer a different path.

Walk and Talk Therapy is a gentle, yet powerful alternative. Research shows that walking side by side, rather than sitting across from someone, can ease the intensity of traditional therapy settings. It naturally reduces the pressure of eye contact and allows conversations to flow more freely. Even more compelling, studies consistently highlight the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors: nature has a calming effect on the mind, lowers stress levels, and boosts emotional well-being.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who prefers a slow, steady stroll, Walk and Talk Therapy is accessible to you. Your sessions are thoughtfully tailored to your pace, your needs, and your comfort level—because therapy should meet you where you are, both emotionally and physically.

Let’s take that first step—together.

I have always had an innate longing for wanting people to reach their full potential, knowing that they are valued, important and worthy of love. As I am deeply passionate about coming alongside people to help facilitate their own journey towards improved well-being and self-belief. I do this by bringing them alongside the natural healing I strongly believe is found in the outdoors. There is some so healing being in the outdoors – healing power of nature is something that is quite astounding alone. What better way to merge both therapeutic counselling and the healing properties of the outdoors together. Combining fresh air, movement – Bilateral Stimulation, and open dialogue creating a powerful space for reflection and personal growth. Born and raised in the Lake District, I have always felt a profound connection to nature and the outdoors. The landscapes that shaped my childhood have also been a source of healing for me, reinforcing my belief in the restorative power of the outdoors. I have seen firsthand, on many occassions, how nature supports mental well-being, and how combining movement with therapy creates an accessible and grounding way for individuals to process their thoughts and emotions. It’s a truly natural way of helping, healing and overcoming.

1:1 Therapeutic Counselling

Healing begins where movement and conversation meet. Rooted in nature and grounded in empathy, I offer person-centred counselling that takes place outdoors—inviting you into restorative, mindful movement in natural spaces. Through a combination of integrative ecotherapy, embodied awareness, and gentle support, we will foster a safe, open, and enriching space for emotional healing and self-discovery. Outdoor therapy is designed to support you through all stages of life. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, relationship dynamics, or life transitions, outdoor therapy provides a unique opportunity to reduce anxiety, depression, and a low or unsettled state of mind—using the natural world as a powerful facilitator in the healing process. Nature offers metaphors that can help soothe and reframe fixed patterns of thought. The outdoor environment can also be especially beneficial for those experiencing grief, past trauma, or chronic stress. We will walk and talk together to explore your unique concerns, creating space to reflect, process past experiences, and build resilience. The simple act of walking—known as bilateral stimulation—can, in itself, interrupt and challenge rigid thought patterns and feelings of ‘stuckness.’

Immersive Walks

Intentionally designed to activate a range of psychological and somatic processes, immersive walking enhances the healing power of nature. Through the use of metaphorical symbolism and grounding techniques, this experience fosters a deep sense of calm—something we all need in today’s fast-paced world.

Retreats

Retreats step away from the noise and into nature with a weekend designed to restore, reconnect, and realign. The retreats invite you to slow down and experience the therapeutic power of movement in natural surroundings. Through guided walks, grounding practices, and reflective conversations, you'll explore emotional clarity, embodied awareness, and a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. Whether you're seeking calm, clarity, or simply space to breathe, this retreat offers a nurturing environment to pause, process, and begin again—one mindful step at a time.

“The cracks of our brokenness are the places where the light is allowed in.”

“Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’”

Therapeutic Benefits of Outdoor Therapy

Rhythmic Bilateral Stimulation

The act of walking creates a gentle left-right rhythm that stimulates both hemispheres of the brain. This mechanism, similar to EMDR, supports emotional regulation, trauma processing, and the integration of complex thoughts and memories.

Symbolism and Metaphor

The natural world offers metaphoric resources—storms passing, paths dividing, seasons changing. These symbols become rich therapeutic tools, offering new language, imagery, and perspective for understanding our journeys.

Embodied Cognition

Walking in nature deepens the connection between mind and body. As clients move, physical sensations and posture inform and enhance emotional awareness, helping individuals return to their bodies as sources of insight and grounding—especially crucial for those managing anxiety or trauma

“At Breathe, healing happens in the stillness nature, the rhythm of footsteps, and the kindness of being truly heard.”

Testimonials...

“Walking side by side with my therapist made it easier to open up.” One client shared how the natural setting helped them feel more relaxed and less self-conscious. The movement and fresh air created a sense of ease that made difficult conversations feel more manageable.

– Anon

“Being outdoors gave me a new perspective—literally and emotionally.” A client described how walking through changing scenery helped them process emotions and see their challenges from different angles. They found the experience grounding and empowering, especially when navigating anxiety and stress.

– Anon

“I never thought therapy could feel this natural.” I, as a therapist see how clients often feel more at ease in outdoor sessions, especially those who find traditional settings confining. The combination of movement, nature, and conversation fosters a holistic sense of well-being.

– Liz

Letting Nature and Nurture Heal

Your journey can start here, one step at a time.

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