Posted by shrinking violet on September 24, 2004, at 19:00:08
In reply to Re: Time to decorate therapy office--ideas?, posted by Annierose on September 24, 2004, at 12:12:36
First I just want to say *hugs* to ((((GG)))) for being so open-minded and obviously caring about your profession and clients to ask our opinions as to how to possibly make your clients feel more at ease.
I agree that tissues should be within reach, and I love bookcases filled with books. Also, perhaps some prints on the walls....thankfully my T likes art, and has one or 2 goodsized prints on most of her walls, so I always have something to stare at (especially given that the only window is located behind the chair!). That's another thing....my T doesn't have a couch (thankfully...it would feel too weird and expectant to me), but she has these 2 fabulous identical chairs. They are SO cozy and comfortable...you almost feel like you're being hugged when you sit in them. And she has a pillow, not large (maybe 12x10), colorful and soft. Sometimes I hug it, sometimes I run my fingers over it if I'm thinking, sometimes I just lean against it, but it's nice to have something to fiddle with if I need it. She also doesn't use much artificial lighting, which I also like. I'm not even sure if she has an overhead light (she must, but it's never on. Hmm, I'll have to check next time). Usually the light from the window is enough, or she'll have her desk lamp on. Actually, now that fall is approaching and it gets darker earlier, I am starting my 5 PM sessions again, and at that time it's so great in her office....the sun is setting and the sky is pink and there's just enough light in her office from the desk lamps. Very cozy and warm (and condusive!).
Of course, plants are a must for you, GG. My T has a couple, and she also has a sunflower in a vase. It has become a symbol of sorts for me / us, and it's a nice thing to look at when my eyes wander around the room. I also like someone's suggestion that there be no furniture between you and the client (although, of course that's a personal preference). My T's desk is situated so that she can either face the desk or, if she turns her chair to the left, she is facing the client's chairs without having an obstruction in between and without her having to move her position too much.
My T also has some knick-knacks on her desks and bookcase, which I like: she has various cat statuettes, and some Buddha figurines and meditation balls. They say something about her without being too personal, and it adds a homey quality to the office as well.
Good luck and have fun!
poster:shrinking violet
thread:394347
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040918/msgs/394689.html