My Practice

I offer a wellness therapy model that combines traditional talk therapy with physical movement in the outdoors. Evidence-based research has confirmed that this combination can:

*Allow you to open up more quickly and comfortably

*Increase your energy

*Improve the clarity of your thinking

*Make you feel more peaceful

*Help you cope with daily life stress

*Sharpen your focus and concentration

*Lessen symptoms of depression and anxiety

*Encourage positive changes in perception and behavior

What Exactly Is Walk and Talk Therapy?

Walk and talk therapy is the same length as a seated, talk session. We walk at a pace that is comfortable for you; we can take a leisurely stroll or a power walk. Many of my clients have found that a session results in an extra several thousand steps for the day. My clients range in age from 12 to 80 and are all shapes and sizes. My experience is that anyone can do it and everyone can benefit! We walk in quiet neighborhoods or at local parks or lakes. If there is a place that is convenient for you I will make every effort to meet you there for your sessions. I walk in all sorts of weather, but I do have office space should you prefer to be inside on any given day. I also offer telehealth sessions so that you can choose to connect with me virtually.

My Client Promise

I promise to be with you every step of our journey together. I am committed to providing a compassionate, collaborative and emotionally safe environment for our work. We will identify your strengths and develop a treatment plan that addresses your emotional and physical needs. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward with optimism.

My Therapy

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Depression, fear, sadness and loneliness are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we experience. I can help you recover the motivation, perspective and joy that you once had, and give you better tools to move more quickly out of negative or scary feelings if they return.

Change, Loss & Transitions

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Many individuals experience symptoms associated with changes in their life, planned or unforeseen. Fear, confusion and overwhelm are a few emotions that can linger after traumatic shifts or losses. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process toward healing and acceptance.

Relationships & Intimacy

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Relationships & Intimacy

Relationship and intimacy struggles are common but painful experiences that often require self-examination and behavioral change in order to maintain healthy emotional connections. I can help you strengthen your relationships with spouses, partners, parents, children, friends and co-workers.

About Me

Beth Ann Smith, LCSW-C

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Maryland. I received my undergraduate degree from The University of Virginia in 1986 and my masters in social work from The University of Maryland in 1995. I have worked in non-profit settings for most of my career treating children, adolescents and adults. As a former certified group fitness instructor and avid fitness enthusiast I understand how important movement and exercise are for emotional, physical and mental health. I use and teach deep breathing, mindfulness meditation and guided imagery relaxation techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an additional cost for Walk and Talk therapy?

There are no additional fees—the cost of the session is the same as traditional talk therapy. My charge for a full session (55 minutes) is $210.

What about bad weather?

I will check in the morning of your session to see whether or not you want to meet outdoors or indoors. I walk in all seasons, rain or shine.

Is this a cardio workout or personal training?

No, this is neither of those. The emphasis is on movement and nature as opposed to exercise. The pace of the walk depends upon you. There is no need to feel nervous about your level of fitness because I start where you feel comfortable. That being said, most of my clients are pleased that their session results in 3,000-4,000 more steps per day. Any level of movement can help to renew interest in your physical health.

Where do we meet?

The initial session is conducted in my office in North Potomac or virtually to determine if this is a good fit for you. After that, we can discuss a meeting place. I make it a priority to meet at a location convenient for you, whether that is a park, a neighborhood or my office. Common meeting places are Lake Needwood, Rock Creek Trail, Cabin John Regional Park and the C&O Canal.

What about my confidentiality?

As we are in a public setting, there is a chance that we will run into people that either you or I know. At that point, it is up to you to disclose any information about me. I will never compromise your confidentiality. It has been my experience that this has not been problematic with any clients, but we can discuss how to handle this before we go on our first walk.

Can we switch back to the office if I find I don’t enjoy this?

Yes, it is up to you. I have clients that enjoy walking more in the cooler months and come indoors in the hotter months, and vice versa. I also have clients that prefer to sit outside for their sessions. I am open to whatever method works best for you.

What insurances do you accept?

I am an in-network provider with ALL Carefirst, Blue Cross Blue Shield plans and CIGNA/Evernorth plans. I do the billing for ALL of my clients no matter what insurance plan you have. All you pay me is your copayment (generally costs you $10-$25 per session) and sometimes a deductible. My clients tell me that it is a big relief for them to not have to worry about their billing issues!

"Walk-and-Talk therapy with Beth is a powerhouse for your mental and physical health. Breathing in fresh air helps clear out the tension you are holding in your lungs. Being outside gets you Vitamin D from the sun without taking any pills. Exercise boosts the "feel-good' chemicals in your brain... all while getting to talk about the progress in your therapy journey. I loved my time walking and talking with Beth! I felt rejuvenated and refreshed. What a great way to spend an hour!"

- Client Testimonial

"I can't recommend Beth enough. Her Walk and Talk therapy has been incredibly grounding for me. Connecting with nature and moving while we talk helps me relax and open up in a way traditional therapy sessions never did. After moving out of the Washington, DC area one of the first things I did when I returned was to contact Beth. She has supported me through a number of major life transitions -- getting married, being pregnant during COVID, being a new mom, going back to work after having children -- with such gentleness and kindness. Seeing Beth weekly is an essential part of my self-care, and it makes me a truly happier mom, wife, daughter and friend! I have recommended lots of my friends to her... they and I are so grateful for her guidance."

- Client Testimonial

Walk and Talk therapy to keep you moving forward with clarity and optimism.

“A walk in nature walks the soul back home.”

My Practice

What Exactly Is Walk and Talk Therapy?

My Client Promise

My Therapy

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Change, Loss & Transitions

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Relationships & Intimacy

Depression, Anxiety & Other Difficult Mood States

Relationships & Intimacy

About Me

Beth Ann Smith, LCSW-C

Frequently Asked Questions

In every walk with nature one receives far more than she seeks.

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Reflect In Motion

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