10 things clients wish therapists knew – They feel awkward and uncomfortable

Think of it as wearing itchy clothing around all day long – except the itching is in your soul and the itching never stops. People seek help when the itching becomes too uncomfortable to ignore.  Therapists have the opportunity to make it harder or easier for them to reach out.  Take a look around and evaluate whether your environment is awkward or inviting.

Is your office nice? Would you entertain a guest there?  If not, re-read the waiting room post (#10) and lather, rinse, repeat.  Be a host.  Offer everyone who walks in your door a bottle of water or a cup of tea or coffee. Make sure they know where everything is. Keep the tissues handy. Allow them to sit wherever they want.  Fluff the pillows. Keep a soft throw blanket handy.  Put things on your coffee table that they can fiddle with while they’re telling you their problems. Buy a slinky.  It will cheer everyone up!

Every single person who walks into a therapy office feels awkward and uncomfortable.   Are you making it easier or harder for them to be there?

Upping your game – a Lifeologie institute Core Values series –

Core value: comfortable client care

by Melanie Wells, LPC, LMFT

www.lifeologiefranchising.com

www.wefixbrains.com