Walk and Talk Group Therapy: A New Way to Support Young Adults
- Felicity Botterill
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
This summer, a new walk and talk group therapy programme is launching in Milton Keynes with a fresh take on emotional support. Starting in July 2025, Walk and Talk Therapy offers young adults aged 18 to 21 the chance to explore their mental health in a setting that feels open, relaxed and genuinely supportive.
Held at the scenic Willen Lake, this five-week programme creates space for young people to talk, reflect and connect – all while walking outdoors in nature.
A Different Kind of Group Therapy
Traditional therapy settings don’t suit everyone. Sitting in a room with strangers can feel daunting, especially if you’re already feeling anxious or unsure about reaching out for help.
This is where Walk and Talk Therapy comes in. Instead of being indoors, sessions take place outdoors, with participants walking side-by-side rather than sitting face-to-face. This naturally reduces pressure, makes conversation feel easier, and encourages a gentle rhythm that supports both emotional expression and connection.
Each session is guided by a qualified psychotherapist and includes space to talk about topics like emotional wellbeing, identity, relationships and life direction. The goal is not just to explore feelings but to begin building a sense of community and belonging – something many young people are craving right now.
Why Choose Walk and Talk Group Therapy for Young Adults?
This approach blends the benefits of therapy with the healing qualities of movement and nature. It’s particularly well-suited to young people who may find traditional therapy a bit formal or intense.
Nature helps us slow down
Being in green spaces can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and create a sense of perspective. The sound of water, the rustle of trees, and the open space all help people feel more grounded and present.
Walking encourages honest conversation
There’s something about walking that makes it easier to talk. Without the intensity of eye contact, young people often feel more at ease to share what’s really going on. The steady movement helps release tension, and it’s easier to open up without feeling like you're being watched or judged.
Nature can be part of the process
This isn’t just therapy that happens to be outdoors – nature is woven into the work itself. A therapist might invite reflection on surroundings to help a young person express how they’re feeling. For example, noticing a still lake or a changing sky can offer metaphors for emotional states, transitions, or inner experience. Some people feel more connected to their thoughts when using the natural world as a mirror. Others find comfort in the constancy and rhythm of the outdoors. Over time, nature becomes more than a backdrop – it becomes a resource in the healing process.
It feels more natural
Therapy doesn't have to feel clinical. For young people who might be accessing support for the first time, Walk and Talk Therapy offers a more informal and approachable experience. This setting also helps reduce the stigma that can sometimes surround mental health support.
It builds real connection
Group therapy means no one is going through it alone. Being around others who are navigating similar feelings can be incredibly validating. It reminds participants that they’re not the only ones struggling – and that support is available.
Body and mind work together
Walking while processing emotions creates a powerful link between body and mind. This can lead to deeper insight, a stronger sense of agency and increased resilience over time.
Who is it for?
This group is designed for young adults aged 18 to 21 who live in or near Milton Keynes. Whether you’re feeling isolated, uncertain about the future, or simply curious about trying something new, this could be a positive step forward.
Maybe you’ve finished school and aren’t sure what’s next. Perhaps you’re navigating changes in identity, relationships, or direction. Or maybe you're just looking for a space where you can feel heard and understood. Whatever the reason, you’re welcome.
What You Need to Know
Start Date: July 2025
Location: Willen Lake, Milton Keynes
Duration: 5 weekly sessions
Cost: £10 per session
Facilitator: Qualified psychotherapist
Who can join: Young adults aged 18–21
How to Get Involved
Spaces are limited, so if you're interested or know someone who might benefit, we encourage you to get in touch. You can refer yourself or someone else through the Your Space Foundation website or by contacting the team directly.
If you're working with young people in education, social care or community roles, please help us spread the word. The more people know about this, the more young adults we can reach with meaningful, accessible support.
Final Thoughts
Walk and Talk Therapy for young adults offers something different. It’s not just about talking through problems, it’s about movement, connection and feeling part of something. For young adults who feel stuck, uncertain or alone, this group could be a gentle, powerful step forward.
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