It was 30 degrees here in North Wales
My counselling room was oppressive and humid I couldn’t open the windows wide on the sunny side of the building in case confidentiality was compromised.
My client was tired and hot and bothered
It wasn’t the ideal counselling environment for both of us
Suddenly I had an idea and asked my client
Do you remember those hot rare days in primary school when your favourite teacher took a class on the playing field ?
They smiled and nodded at the memory
Let’s go for a walk and a sit in the shade
And that’s what we did . We walked to a knot of trees behind the counselling building and sat in the cool shade of some silver birch
Disregarding marking our clothes on the cool earth
And there my client talked
Brilliant inspiration!
ReplyDeleteIt recharged the interaction
DeleteDoesn't happen often in Wales, but I do remember the odd lesson outside. Teachers go up a notch in estimation, so did you.
ReplyDeleteAs a child lessons on the field was a treat beyond treat
DeleteAnd that is one of the reasons you'll make a great counsellor! xx
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed
DeleteI like that idea... your office is the great outdoors... very good place to pour your heart out... Hugs! deb
ReplyDeleteIt kick started the conversations
DeleteI can imagine it felt quite special to your client.
ReplyDeleteIt brought energy
DeleteSounds like a special day that will be remembered!
ReplyDeleteBroke a bit of the humdrum
DeleteGenius inspiration, John, and you involved your client with the shared memory of the golden teachers in your lives. You're a born counselor, my friend!
ReplyDeleteHugs!
It’s been hot today bloody hot
DeleteI have a friend who offers walking/outdoor sessions. Very popular
ReplyDeleteI can see the downside of walk and talk
DeleteYou may miss some non verbal cues
Fabulous solution, and one that will be remembered by you & your client. You're a natural counselor.
ReplyDeleteI lost a bit of credibility getting up again
DeleteLOL.
DeleteBeautiful.
ReplyDelete🌈🙏🩷
DeleteAnother reason you're so suited to being a counselor! React to the client and the conditions, find a good solution. That's great.
ReplyDeleteI’m only allowed seven sessions per client which isn’t long
DeleteWell done for both of you, John. Less clinical too. Gigi
ReplyDeleteThe change energised the interaction
DeletePerfect solution.
ReplyDeleteIt felt a bit naughty , but we talked about that
Delete"Disregarding our clothes"? You mean you removed them?
ReplyDeleteI missed a word lol
DeleteGenius. My happiest memory is of school class outside under the tree at the end of term. 48 years ago
ReplyDeleteExactly
Delete