The Spatial Qualities of
Counselling Rooms Why the Spatial Environment Matters
Although we aren’t always consciously aware of it, our physical environment constantly influences our emotions and behaviours.1 In the context of counselling rooms, their spatial qualities can influence the effectiveness of the therapeutic interaction.2 Poor spatial qualities that are cold, clinical, and non-intimate can exacerbate feelings of discomfort and limit self-disclosure.3 Good spatial qualities can influence the clients’ sense of comfort, intimacy, and agency.4 This document summarises evidence based research related to spatial qualities that should be incorporated when (re)creating counselling rooms to maximise their effectiveness.
Room Location
ЁЁ Room with view •• The view allows clients to seek escape and respite5 •• Views of greenery reduces stress6 •• Avoid windowless spaces, as they can be perceived as confining and reduce feelings of free-will and agency7 •• Prevent clients being seen or watched by others including staff members ЁЁ Provide discrete entry ЁЁ Locate room close to bathroom and waiting room
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Counseling Room
WC
Privacy
ЁЁ Minimise views into counselling room including obvious surveillance panels and cameras ЁЁ Install adjustable blinds on windows •• To control privacy and light ЁЁ Install acoustic door seals ЁЁ Use soft furnishings and/or surfaces •• Soft surfaces absorb sound, hard surfaces reflect it ЁЁ Install acoustic panels •• This can be on walls or ceilings and either be discrete or decorative
Layout
ЁЁ Position chairs perpendicular to clients’ chairs facing the window •• A perpendicular layout allows the client to look away without turning their head •• Avoid face to face seating as this can be seen as confrontational and forced eye contact can feel threatening8 ЁЁ Provide formal and informal seating options •• Formal seating (C1/T1) is preferred when the situation is unfamiliar but as the therapeutic relationship develops clients may want to become more informal (C2/T2)9 ЁЁ Position clients’ chair so they can see the door •• This maintains their sense of free-will and agency10 ЁЁ 127cm is the ideal distance between clients and therapist •• It was found to be a suitable distance for intimacy and conducive for communication and self-disclosure11 Janai Lemar ia-naj@live.com | 0413 999 882
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