Nicola Davies, PhD from October 22, 2018
A study conducted by Nicola Davis a PhD on October 22, 2018 about how to design a therapeutic space and how to make a counselling room comfortable for multiple users. During this study we are going to assume that these factors can be implicated into other rooms as well as counselling rooms. The physical environment influences your emotions and well-being, designing in a therapeutic way will affect the clients and the therapists. Room layouts affect the physiological safety, intimacy, willingness, to self-disclose and have a good sense of feeling of the space. Poor layouts give the opposite effect and reduce communication, which is a poor outcome. Specifically, the layout of the space can influence mood and behavior. Both the client and therapist have different views and needs from the space. Taking into consideration the metal states and what design cues they take away from the space that influence behaviours. By keeping the room welcoming, cozy and warm it makes for a safe feeling environment for vulnerable individuals.
Using light and soothing colors such as green and blue are generally a good way to go. Seating should be comfortable, and the therapist chair shouldn’t be superior over the patients chair or confrontational. It is important that the chairs have sufficient back support, be able to get moved around, but heavy enough that the client cannot pick up the furniture in case of violence. If the patient can see the door or a window from their seat it allows them to feel their sense of free will and safety. Small components of nature such as a few office plants and views of landscape are better for mental health. People prefer natural colored wood grain over surfaces without grain. People also prefer wood over chrome and glass, but wood cannot take up over 45% of the room or it loses its stress relieving effects. It is also said that people don’t like to see fingerprints of the people before them or any other traces of people. In COVID-19 situations this should not be a problem since all surfaces need to be cleaned and sanitized regularly. Having windows wherever possible to let in sunlight to ensure the room feels bright and open. Having lighting that can be adjusted to the way that the patients want to ensure their comfort. Make sure that conversations are kept within the room and people in the waiting room don’t overhear what you are talking about. Having appropriate age furniture for the clientele is essential. Round tables are better for engaging conversation. Using items such as carpets or rugs provides a soothing feeling to the room. Giving people positive distractions allows a rest from the emotional stressful sessions. Having things in the room for them to shift their focus to such as paintings, fountains, a calm space or even some toys. Personalizing the office is important as well so patients can feel that the therapist is credible. It should be kept to a minimum to help the client feel at home.
Avoid prison like closed spaces with hard surfaces and no windows with dull paint. Don’t imply punishment. Don’t have clutter, triggers such as paintings of violence or sadness. Allow the waiting room to be similar to the patient room so it doesn’t look neglected.
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