Individual Therapy · In-Person · San Diego
Walk & Talk
Therapy
Coupling movement with psychotherapy to create a dynamic, embodied process for self-exploration, reflection, and growth — in the open air of Hillcrest, San Diego.
What It Is
Therapy that moves with you
Walk-talk therapy is exactly what it sounds like: a psychotherapy session conducted while walking outdoors. Rather than sitting face-to-face in an office, you and Dr. Lim walk side-by-side through the quiet paths near her Hillcrest practice.
This format draws on the well-documented connection between physical movement and emotional processing. Many clients find that walking makes it easier to access and articulate feelings that feel stuck in a traditional setting.
Sessions are 50 minutes, typically beginning and ending near the office. Routes are chosen collaboratively, with privacy and comfort in mind.
Dr. Alice Lim, Psy.D.
Clinical Psychologist · Hillcrest, San Diego
Why It Works
The case for moving together
Movement Unlocks Expression
Side-by-side walking reduces the intensity of direct eye contact, making it easier to talk openly about difficult feelings and experiences.
Nature Supports Regulation
Being outdoors in natural light and fresh air naturally calms the nervous system, helping you feel more grounded and present during sessions.
Embodied Self-Awareness
Noticing how your body feels as you move — tension, breath, pace — opens new pathways for self-reflection that sitting still may not surface.
A Dynamic, Living Process
Therapy doesn't have to happen in a fixed chair. Coupling movement with talk creates an alive, collaborative process for growth and resilience.
Where We Walk
Hillcrest & Balboa Park
Sessions typically begin and end at the office in Hillcrest — one of San Diego's most walkable, green, and community-oriented neighborhoods. The proximity to Balboa Park offers exceptional variety for outdoor sessions.
~5 min from office
Balboa Park
San Diego's iconic 1,200-acre urban park. Tree-lined promenades, quiet garden paths, and open meadows offer a calming, nature-rich setting.
Walking distance
Hillcrest Neighborhood Streets
The quiet, tree-lined residential streets surrounding the office provide a familiar, low-stimulation environment for sessions.
~8 min from office
Morley Field & Russ Blvd
Peaceful walking paths within Balboa Park, away from busy attractions — ideal for focused, private conversation.
Questions
What to expect
Is walk-talk therapy right for everyone?
Walk-talk therapy works well for many people, particularly those who find traditional seated therapy uncomfortable or who benefit from physical movement. During the initial intake, Dr. Lim will discuss whether it's a good fit for your needs and goals.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and supportive walking shoes. Sessions happen rain or shine in most cases, though alternatives can be arranged for extreme weather.
How private are outdoor sessions?
Routes are chosen with privacy in mind — quieter paths where conversations are naturally protected by ambient outdoor sound and distance from others.
What if I have mobility considerations?
Routes are fully adaptable. Dr. Lim will work with you to find a pace and path that feels comfortable and accessible.
Is telehealth available instead?
Yes — individual therapy is also available via telehealth for California and New York residents. Reach out to discuss which format might suit you best.
Ready to take the first step?
Reach out to learn more or to schedule an initial intake with Dr. Lim.