Gold Coast not-for-profit, Walk and Talk for Wellness, delivers 45-minute nature-based counselling sessions to the public with trained listeners through council parklands. 

They say a walk in the park is a breath of fresh air for mental health. Now Walk and Talk for Wellness is taking that to a whole new level. 

This award-winning nature-based wellness program includes movement, nature and connection. Which research shows help to improve subjective wellbeing and daily functioning. This adaptable and inclusive mental health service welcomes individuals and organisations at an affordable price-point. Just $5. And there is no catch. 

For those who are intimidated by clinical settings, these side-by-side sessions offer support without the long wait time. 

Instead of the unusual clinical setting, Walk and Talk for Wellness offers wide open spaces, easy parking, accessible paths and amble shade. 

So, how does it work? Participants join a trained listener for a 45-minute walk and talk counselling session in small groups or one-on-one at Benowa Botanic Gardens, Tallowwood and Underwood Park. 

Trained listeners are students studying at local universities and colleges as well as qualified counsellors. 

This incredible local initiative is available to anyone and everyone. This includes people seeking mental health support in an affordable way and organisations seeking support for employees. Plus support workers and their clients, as well as minority groups and NDIS providers with strained budgets.  

Walk and Talk for Wellness is designed to last as a legacy project for our community. With the long-term in mind, by offering prac students the opportunity to offer community service under supervision, costs will always remain low. Aligned with this mission, in 2021, Walk and Talk completed their first round of clinical research focussing on the construct of connection.

As for the future? Walk and Talk for Wellness Co-Founder, Richard O'Connor hopes "to create a legacy project that runs through our city, inspiring future generations to look within themselves and community to better use existing resources."

For more information or to book in a session, check out Walk and Talk for Wellness at walkandtalkforwellness.com