Running & Hiking Therapy
A Movement-Based Approach to Mental Wellness:
Movement is Medicine
Therapy doesn’t have to happen in a chair. For many, sitting still can feel restrictive, making it harder to process emotions and open up. Running & Hiking Buddy Therapy blends movement with therapy, harnessing the power of exercise to support mental health in a dynamic, natural way.
Why Combine Movement & Therapy?
The connection between physical movement and mental well-being is well-documented. Sigmund Freud himself conducted therapy while walking, recognizing that movement helps stimulate deeper thinking. Modern research supports this—exercise activates the brain, reduces ruminative thoughts, and helps process emotions more effectively.
When we move, we engage multiple areas of the brain, particularly those responsible for emotional regulation, problem-solving, and memory. Rhythmic movement, such as walking or running, has been shown to mimic some of the benefits of EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is used to help process trauma. The bilateral stimulation from movement encourages cognitive flexibility, making it easier to reframe thoughts, regulate emotions, and gain new perspectives.
Additionally, movement:
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Reduces stress hormones – Physical activity lowers cortisol and adrenaline, helping the body and mind shift out of a stress response.
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Boosts neurotransmitters – Increases dopamine and serotonin, improving mood, focus, and emotional resilience.
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Encourages flow state – Engaging in steady movement allows the mind to settle into a focused, meditative rhythm, fostering deeper insight.
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Strengthens mind-body awareness – Connecting with physical sensations can enhance emotional self-awareness and help manage anxiety.
I've seen firsthand how running and hiking sessions allow clients to broach difficult topics more easily, process emotions faster, and break through mental blocks that might feel stuck in a traditional office setting. When we move, our minds become more engaged, flexible, and open. It’s not just about talking—it’s about feeling, experiencing, and shifting in real-time.
For many, the simple act of stepping forward mirrors the internal progress they seek in therapy. Movement is medicine—both for the body and the mind.
The Science Behind It
Why Movement Works
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Reduces stress & anxiety – Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, boosting mood and reducing emotional distress.
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Encourages deeper conversations – Walking, running, or hiking side by side creates a relaxed, pressure-free environment, making it easier to share thoughts.
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Enhances mind-body connection – Moving through nature or engaging in rhythmic motion helps regulate emotions and promotes mindfulness.
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Supports trauma processing – Bilateral movement (like walking or running) can aid in emotional processing, similar to EMDR techniques.
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Improves motivation & energy – Regular movement-based therapy builds consistency, motivation, and resilience in daily life.
Initial Consultation
– Before we hit the trail/ road, we’ll meet (virtually) to discuss your goals, comfort level, and any concerns.
Personalized Approach
– Whether it’s a walk, jog, or full run, we’ll find a pace that works for you. Therapy will be integrated into the movement in a way that feels natural and productive.
Evidence-Based Techniques –
Sessions may incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, grounding exercises, and somatic work to help you process emotions effectively.
Flexibility –
This can be a stand-alone experience, an occasional check-in, or a structured part of your ongoing therapy.
Who is This For?
✔ Anyone looking for a more active, dynamic therapy experience
✔ Individuals struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or life transitions
✔ Those who find movement helps them process emotions
✔ People who love nature and want to incorporate it into their healing
✔ Runners, hikers, or anyone looking to integrate exercise into their self-care routine
How Does Running Therapy Work?
My Personal Connection to Running & Mental Health
Fitness has been a central part of my life for over 12 years, but over the past six years, running has become a driving force in my mental and physical well-being.
When I was younger, I struggled with my mental health and substance use. Life felt overwhelming at times, but exercise became my anchor. No matter what I was going through, movement gave me clarity, control, and purpose. Over the years, running took on that role—it has been my constant, my guide through all the highs and lows in my life.
I’ve taken this passion to the next level by competing in ultramarathons. My most recent race was a 50-mile ultramarathon in March 2025. Prior to that, I completed two 50Ks and an 80-mile run in August 2024. Now, I’m training for my next challenge—a 100-mile race in September 2025.
The rhythmic motion, the fresh air, and the feeling of pushing past limits have all played a crucial role in managing stress, improving focus, and fostering resilience. Running has been my space to reflect, reset, and reconnect with myself, and it’s a tool I believe can help others do the same.
Beyond running, I also love to hike and explore national parks. Being in nature, whether on a trail run or a challenging hike, gives me a deep sense of peace and connection. The combination of movement and the outdoors has played a crucial role in managing stress, improving focus, and fostering resilience.
This personal experience is what inspired me to offer Running & Hiking Buddy Therapy—to help clients find the same sense of clarity, empowerment, and relief that movement has provided me. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone looking for a new way to manage stress, I’d love to help you explore how movement can support your mental health.
Important Note on Insurance Coverage
Running & Hiking Buddy Therapy is a private-pay service and is not covered by insurance. While traditional therapy sessions may be eligible for insurance reimbursement, this unique approach falls outside standard coverage.
This model allows for greater flexibility, a personalized experience, and the freedom to move beyond a traditional office setting. Clients can focus on their mental well-being without the constraints of insurance policies, session limits, or diagnostic requirements.
If you have any questions about rates or how this service fits your needs, feel free to reach out.
How Does Ketamine Feel?
The effects of ketamine, which most patients find pleasant, last for approximately 45 minutes. These effects can make you feel “far from” your body, and facilitate shifts in perception that can often feel expansive in nature. Your motor and verbal abilities will be reduced, so you’ll be lying down in a comfortable position during the experience. Once these effects subsided, we’ll spend the remainder of our appointment giving you space to process and discuss your experience. While it may feel hard to articulate what happened during the experience, patients feel like the insights gained are none-the-less clear. Studies have shown that the benefits to mood and neurological growth can last up to two weeks after the Ketamine experience.