What would you expect in a therapy room? Cushions, pictures, a clock, plants? And what about the process itself? Well some things are a given in therapy sessions – others are not....
Tissues (and Tears) – there will be tears. Expect them. If you are in training and you find it difficult to sit with someone’s tears, learn how to do so. Tears are part of the process. Tears are a release, a “letting go”. And remember therapists cry too sometimes – therapists are human too! And so tissues are an essential requirement in a therapy room. That’s not about expecting the worst or being melodramatic, but the therapeutic space enables people to connect with deep emotions, and sometimes those emotions need mopping up. But there are also colds, hay fever, spills, spiders and all sorts - so be prepared!
Tea – now there’s a debate! I once worked in an NHS counselling department where an administrator checked in the clients on arrival, and a cup of tea or coffee was always offered. In private practice, I almost never offered clients a cup of tea, though a water jug and glasses were freely available in the room, so this tea system was a bit of a jolt for me when I started working there. I personally find the cup of tea business a complete distraction, and if both of you have a cup of tea, there’s a subtle shift somehow to a “cosy chat” scenario rather than a professional session. I gave up protesting about the tea after a while though – it felt there were bigger issues to focus on. And with experience and time I learnt to tolerate and work with and round the tea ritual of that particular department.
Teddy Bears – you would be surprised at the effect and impact of a teddy bear in the therapy room. Some clients recoil, others scoop them up and cuddle them tight. Some laugh, some cry (there we are back with those tears again...). The first time I took my own teddy to therapy felt unbelievably strange, but my therapist asked my teddy’s name (Jeremy – don’t ask me why) and spoke to him – wow - trust me, teddies are good therapy!
Of course, there might be occasions when the tissues run out (therapists are still human!). And there may be times when a cup of tea is entirely appropriate in crisis or trauma. And sometimes there are tears of laughter and joy – yes, really, even in therapy.
Other things that people sometimes suggest for therapy rooms are fish tanks and music – but don’t start me on those!
Talk to the Teddy Bear ...
