Dear Therapists, a Reminder That the Physical Setting of Therapy Really Matters
For the third time since starting therapy, my therapist has changed their office. I know it may sound silly to some people, but for trauma survivors, physical safe space is a big deal and hard to come by.
My therapist’s office is like an oasis to me. I know where everything is. Every book, every picture, every clock. When I notice myself getting triggered in session and unable to look her in the eyes, I seek out these familiar objects… taking in the smell in the room, the sound of the clocks ticking, the AC humming, and I acknowledge the soothing way in which the couch cradles my body.
All of this helps to ground me and anchor me, allowing me to continue effectively engaging in the session. So the change of space is a huge adjustment and can be somewhat dysregulating.
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