Walk & Talk Therapist Ripple Counselling Melbourne

Katalina Montaigue

If you’re reading this,
chances are you want to change something in your life, or you’re looking for an empathetic listener, to help carry the weight of living in this chaotic world.
If that’s the case, then hello and welcome, my name is Katalina, I’m an Integrative Psychotherapist Melbourne, practicing Walk & Talk Therapy. My passion is helping people in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
If you think this would suit you or someone you know, give me a call so we can see if we’re a good fit.

A little something About Me

I know therapy can feel overwhelming and intense, which is why I’m here to introduce you to Walk & Talk due to its ability to take the pressure out of the therapy hour. For example, by walking side by side, eye contact becomes more natural, conversation too, finds a natural ebb and flow, and there is more space to breath, think, and be present.
I believe great things are not achieved in one almighty effort, but by an army of tiny acts which compound into something great.
Practicing Integrative Psychotherapy embeds my practice in a holistic approach, tailored to each individual.

I’m here for everyone, but I have a soft spot for those kindred spirits who just need to move and play outside.

Main Areas of Therapy

Anxiety & Depression
Finding ways to ‘switch seats’ with anxiety and depression. They may always be in the passenger seat, but let’s get you back in the drivers seat.

Hoarding
Whether holding space for what needs to be felt, or finding tools to function under the weight of chronic and overwhelming grief, I’m here for that.

Ethical Non-Monogamy
Untangle the perceived complexity of ENM, with someone you don’t have to explain the basics to.

Main tools of therapy

Creativity
We all know the power of creativity on the developing mind. The problem is, we seem to have forgotten that our minds don't just stop developing when turn eighteen.

Play
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing."George Bernard Shaw

Think of the happiest people you know, are they serious adults? or do they still giggle like children when opportunity strikes?

Curiosity
Curiosity responds with a tilt of the head, a crinkle to our brow and a, "huh", when big emotions like anger arrives.
Unafraid, Curiosity instead asks Anger "Hi, what are you doing here? and what do you need?"

Walk & Talk Therapy

What is Walk & Talk Therapy?

Walk & Talk Therapy is exactly that, walking and talking in nature. The ebb and flow of conversation is met with the ebb and flow of walking pace, sometimes taking on a steep incline to meet the need for movement, other times stopping to admire a beautiful view or sitting in stillness on a bench. As a completely modifiable practice, calling on nearly any modality of psychotherapy and adapting for varying physical abilities, Walk & Talk Therapy has shown to be highly effective across a huge range of demographics. I’m here for everyone, but I have a soft spot for those kindred spirits who just need to move and play outside.

The Three key components of walk & talk therapy:

Nature
Connecting with our sense-of-self as it pertains to the environment around us, grounds our practice in something real. Conducting therapy in the natural environment, can help us bring our awareness to our present experience, which is a necessary tool for regulating the nervous system.

Movement
Moving our bodies releases endorphins, which help relieve pain, reduce stress and improve our sense of well-being. The rhythmic nature of walking also helps move things which are stuck, such as our thinking or emotions.

Talk Therapy
I studied talk therapy, because I believe in the power of human connection. Imagine telling someone about a hard experience and they stopped, looked at you, and validated your experience by saying simply: “thank you for sharing that with me”.

“Live your life to the fullest; and then, and only then, die. Don’t leave any unlived life behind." Irvin D Yalom

Free 15 minute Introduction call

Almost all therapists offer a free 15 minute introduction call.
I implore you to use this offer!
I hope to think most of us are invested in getting you matched with the right therapist, wheather that's us or someone else.
Here is my recommendation:
Speak to three therapists before choosing one.

Phone: 0490 468 379

Pricing. Contact. Hours of Practice.

Pricing
50 minute session $125
I offer a sliding scale for those in financial hardship.

Contact
Email:[email protected]
Phone: 0490 468 379

Practice Hours
8am – 8pm Monday Tuesday Wednesday Friday.
(Sunday by Appointment )

Confidentiality Policy

Purpose:
Ripple Counselling is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all clients in accordance with the ethical guidelines set by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). This policy outlines our approach to confidentiality within our Walk & Talk therapy model.Privacy in Sessions:All information shared during Walk & Talk therapy sessions remains confidential.Conversations will take place in discreet outdoor settings to minimize the risk of being overheard.Limits to Confidentiality:
Confidentiality may be breached only in the following circumstances:If there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others.If there is a legal obligation to report (e.g., subpoena, mandatory reporting requirements).If child abuse or neglect is disclosed (as per mandatory reporting laws).With your written consent to share information with a specified third party (e.g., GP, psychiatrist).Secure Record-Keeping:Minimal session notes will be stored securely in compliance with privacy laws.Electronic records are password-protected, and physical documents are kept in a locked filing system.Third-Party Discussions:If sessions involve coordination with other professionals (with your consent), only necessary information will be shared.Unexpected Encounters:Due to the nature of Walk & Talk therapy, there is a possibility of being seen in public. Therapists will not acknowledge clients unless initiated by the client to maintain discretion.Client Rights:You may request access to your records at any time, subject to legal exceptions.Concerns about confidentiality can be discussed with your therapist or escalated to PACFA.