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August 18, 2004

Creating A Sacred Space

A person asked me to interrupt my coworker while she was in a session yesterday. As a therapist, in a session I try to create a sacred space for my client where there are no interruptions. This helps make the environment feel safe for the client and facilitates the therapeutic process. As a client, I would not appreciate being interrupted in the middle of a session unless there was an emergency.

Without a receptionist, we have a difficult time being present whenever an unscheduled client arrives in our office. For this reason and for security, we do not accept walk-ins (as is clearly marked on our outdoor sign). We make appointments by phone or in person after a session. We also suggest clients call in advance if they would like to purchase gift certificates. That allows us to fill out the gift certificate, then we can then have it waiting in the reception area with a payment envelope so the transaction can proceed in case we are in a session.

If a client arrives early for an appointment, we have a sign at the entrance of our establishment asking them to have a seat. Signs are on all therapy doors stating that we require quiet while a massage is in session. It never ceases to amaze me that people will stand in our lobby and holler for us. If a client comes to our office unannounced and wants to speak with us, we have a pen and paper available so they can leave us a note, alongside a sign that states this.

With a small practice like ours, it's difficult to cover every contingency. We do our best to make our work environment restful and professional for our customers, and in turn, ourselves.

Posted by linda at August 18, 2004 8:49 AM