Question

Where do you sit in therapy? A chair? The floor? A beanbag? A couch? Do you sit opposite your therapist or out of sight? Do you feel there is some meaning to where/how you sit?

Answer 1

In therapy, the seating arrangement can vary depending on the therapist's style, the therapeutic approach, and the comfort of the client. Therapists typically provide a comfortable and safe environment for their clients to express themselves openly. Here are some common seating arrangements in therapy:

1. Chairs: Traditional therapy often takes place with both the therapist and the client sitting in chairs, facing each other. This setup promotes direct eye contact and facilitates open communication.

2. Couch: Some therapy offices have a couch available for clients who may feel more at ease or relaxed while reclining or lying down. This setup can be conducive to exploring deeper emotions or memories.

3. Beanbags or floor cushions: In some settings, especially when working with children or in certain therapeutic modalities like play therapy, therapists may have beanbags or floor cushions to create a more relaxed and informal environment.

4. No sight: Occasionally, therapists may choose to sit behind the client to give them more privacy and create a sense of safety. This arrangement can be helpful for clients who find direct eye contact uncomfortable or intimidating.

The choice of seating arrangement can indeed hold some meaning or significance in therapy. For example:

• Facing each other: This setup allows for direct engagement and fosters a sense of equality and openness in the therapeutic relationship. It can help build trust and encourage clients to share openly.

• Couch or more relaxed setup: This seating arrangement can create a more informal atmosphere, which may be suitable for certain therapeutic approaches or clients who may feel less guarded in a relaxed setting.

• Behind the client: When the therapist sits out of sight, it can create a sense of safety and privacy, especially for clients who find eye contact challenging or have experienced trauma.

Ultimately, the choice of seating arrangement should prioritize the comfort and well-being of the client. Therapists are usually willing to adjust the seating according to the client's preferences and needs. The seating arrangement can also evolve over time as the therapeutic relationship develops and the client becomes more comfortable with the process.