There comes a time in every clinician’s life where they find themselves looking around their office and realize the inspiration to help clients is just not there. For me it wasn’t only that, it was the feedback from my clients that made me wonder: is this the space for me?

My old space, that I’ve posted from time to time on Instagram, was just not cutting it for me. It didn’t make me feel safe so how could my clients feel free to open up and be vulnerable?

So I set out to make a change and by that I mean I hoped something would fall from the sky and land perfectly in my lap.

Life doesn’t really work out the way you think it will––that’s a good thing and an interesting thing. I stumbled upon this little space through a suggestion from a client. I reached out to the owner and we quickly hit it off. One thing led to another and here I am! Living that better home and garden life.

Things I’ve learned while creating a new space:

1.) If it makes you unhappy, your clients will be unhappy too. In my last office I didn’t have a single window. I thought at first that would be a good thing, but shortly after, I realized it was dark, dark, dark and really sad. It wasn’t just me, either. My clients started making comments about the space and I knew it was time to find a space that was a little more up-lifting. With that said …

2.) Lighting is everything. I had Chris, who’s in the video, tell me I needed more lamps. I didn’t understand because for the first time ever I had windows! What more could I need? Well, it turns out I needed a few lamps. In my office I now have five lamps that range from practical to decorative. Find what works for you and make it your own. 

3.) I have clients that get super down to business when we work together. Other’s like to kick off their shoes and relax. I’m fine with both, but a space should be able to reflect both those mentalities. I have a good couch and a ton of pillows for that very reason. Client’s feel free to do what they need and that’s the whole point of therapy.

4.) Set a budget and stick to it. If you’re thinking of redecorating or moving, you need to be ready to pay. You can do a lot with a little budget, but you still need to account for that price tag, no matter what it is.

5.) Let the space reflect who you are and what kind of therapy you do. I had a friend look at my pictures and say, “Oh, I forgot you don’t work with children.” She does and she was expecting something different. It wasn’t until she realized I work mostly with adults and older teens that my room made sense to her. Make sure you’re creating a space that reflects your work and your authentic self.

That’s it! What did I miss? What do you think a clinician needs to take under consideration when moving or redoing a space?

If you are interested in working with me and you live in the Metro Atlanta area, please do not hesitate to reach out.