I’ve been thinking lately about things we may be doing in the therapy room that may be distracting to our clients. Do you do any of these?
We’ve all been trained on how to properly attend to clients in the therapy room: good eye contact, open posture, focused attention, etc. You may even recall learning about some of your verbal “tics” in your practicum class as you listened to yourself on tape. But how many of us are unaware we are still distracting our clients?
Some things to consider:
- Location of your clock. If your clock isn’t right next to or right above your client’s head, then you will have to make an obvious head movement to see it.
- Location of lights. Turn your lights on and then sit in all of your seats. Are the bulbs too bright? Are they covered sufficiently?
- Temperature. An office that is too hot or too cold will make it difficult for the client to focus.
- Smell. Strong perfume or other scents in your office may overwhelm your client.
- A messy office. Piles of paper everywhere can be a visual distraction, both to you and your client.
- Your outfit. Are you dressed professionally? Showing too much skin, visible underwear, etc. can be distracting to clients. As well as too much jewelry, or too many patterns or bright colors.
- Talking too much. Are you constantly interrupting and/or talking over your client? Are you being too aggressive in controlling the conversation?
- Eating in session. I don’t think I need to elaborate on this one.
- Your phone. Put your phone on silent and do not check it during session.
- Excessive note taking. If you are constantly writing down everything the client says to you, it can create distance.
- Playing with your clothing or hair. Constant fiddling with your clothing or hair can be distracting to a client.
Increased awareness and mindfulness on your part will benefit both you and your client!
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Dr. Barb LoFrisco
