The first part of this topic introduced the concept of stabilization as it relates to office space, and looked at how light and natural elements can be used as a therapeutic tool.  This post will discuss how sounds contributes to a  stabilized environment.

Sound

Depending on your office set-up, you may need more sound buffers than others.  If you share a space with other professionals and are close to a waiting/reception area, you will want to create a soundscape that allows your sessions to not be overheard as well as preventing outside noise from disrupting you and your clients.  Both scenarios prevent stabilization.

Music

Music playing in the waiting area can do wonders to cut back on sound pollution.  Keep in mind the environment you wish to create when choosing the tunes.  Most likely, heavy rock will not be appropriate (but you never know!).  Jazz, spa/nature sounds, classical music, instrumental versions of popular songs are popular waiting area soundtracks that may work for you and your space.

I also like to have natural sound CDs playing on low in my therapy room.  Not only does it help buffer sound, I find it really creates a calmer atmosphere in my office, setting the tone for sessions.  Currently, rain sounds are my personal favourite.

Water Features

Outside my office, there is a water fountain hanging on the wall.  This creates a solid sounding babble, which adds to the soundscape I strive to create.  Not only is it practical—the fountain acts as a sound barrier, it is soothing.  A word of advice: if you are putting a fountain in your office, go for one designed for interior spaces.  The one outside my office is meant for gardens and, therefore, was too loud (the opposite of being stabilizing!) in my therapy room.

White Noise Machines

This is one piece of equipment I currently do not have, although one is on order.  You can buy a machine that only offers white noise, or a go for a model with other options as well (such as rainforest sounds, waves, et cetera).  I lean towards the models with more options.  As well as acting as a sound buffer, white noise machines can be incredibly soothing!

 

This concludes the posts on stabilization in therapy, and how the space in which we conduct sessions is a vital tool.  If you have questions or comments, I would love to hear from you!  Email me at [email protected] and we can chat more!

 

*The views expressed by our authors are personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the CCPA