October 2024
Last month I visited the North London home of Sigmund Freud, the Founding Father of talking therapy. Whilst in his study, in front of the iconic couch, it got me thinking about the therapeutic space and it's importance in the work. A hundred years ago, Freud and his colleagues would sit on a chair at the head of their "patient" who laid down on the couch; whilst Freud encourages them to freely associate with their memories, dreams, desires and emotions. Pictured above is the very couch and it is fair to say his study was deeply moving to be present in. The room was full of Egyptian artefacts, books and various knick-knacks. Much like Freud's work, it was considered revolutionary for the time, being a trained medical doctor treating his patients in this environment. Yet, Freud was keen to instil a safe, comfortable environment - not cold and clinical - but warm and inviting.
Whilst some therapists will still work this way, it is fair to say that the room has evolved to meet the needs of the modern client and therapist - but there are similarities. Therapy rooms tend to have comfy chairs and / or sofas - but the positioning of them tends to be face to face, rather than the more interesting dynamic of reclining client, sitting upright therapist. Common features remain; fostering a sense of calm, comfort and warmth - which are all key parts of the containment within therapeutic relationship.
After years of working in various rooms in charities and in private practise across SE London, I have recently taken on a room in Central Greenwich which I am working from exclusively (pictured above). Whilst it is more modern than Freud's, it still retains the couch - where my clients generally sit (not lie down!, unless they want to!) - and my chair, opposite. The room is quiet and calm - and I sense clients feel at peace which enables them to work with whatever is coming up for them. The room is only part of the story of therapy, but an important part, for feeling safe to disclose. I hope this design is warm and welcoming - providing a sense of privacy and security for those who use it.
Further information:
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Design credit - www.georgialowe.net
wwwhttps://www.freud.org.uk/