From Chaos to Clarity: Office Design Tips for the Neurodivergent Therapist
Oct 27, 2024
Introduction: Why Your Therapy Office Matters
Your therapy office isn’t just a place to work—it’s a space for healing, grounding, and connection. But if you’re a neurodivergent therapist, designing an office that works for you and your clients can feel like solving a puzzle without all the pieces. Sensory sensitivities, executive functioning challenges, and the constant need to mask can make the process overwhelming.
Good news: With a few thoughtful tweaks, your office can become a space that feels calm, functional, and perfectly aligned with your needs.
The Role of Sensory Design in Therapy Offices
Let’s start with the sensory stuff. For neurodivergent folks, small environmental tweaks can make a huge difference.
What to consider:
- Lighting: Ditch the overhead fluorescents. Opt for warm-toned LED lamps or dimmable lights to create a soothing glow.
- Sound: Add a white noise machine or soft background music to block out distracting noises.
- Textures: Choose soft, comfortable furniture and avoid scratchy fabrics that might trigger sensory sensitivities.
- Scents: Be very mindful of this! Some people can have very adverse reactions to even the calmest of scents. It might be a good idea to add a question on your intake form asking if clients have any known olfactory sensitivities.
Bonus Tip: A weighted lap blanket can do wonders for grounding, and clients often love it too!
Declutter for Functionality (Not Pinterest Perfection)
I get it: You’ve probably seen those Pinterest-perfect therapy offices that look like they belong in a magazine. But let’s be real—functionality comes first.
Try this approach:
- The Minimalist Zone: Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach and store everything else out of sight.
- Visual Organization: Use clear bins or labels to make it easier to find what you need (no more hunting for those sticky notes!).
- Daily Reset: Dedicate five minutes at the end of each day to reset your space. Think of it as closing a tab in your brain.
Furniture that Works with You (Not Against You)
Your office furniture should work for you, not make your life harder.
What to look for:
- Chairs: Invest in a supportive yet comfortable chair for you and one for your client. Adjustable options are a win.
- Desks: Standing desks can be a game-changer for those who need movement breaks.
- Couches: Choose ones that are durable and easy to clean but still cozy for clients.
Color Psychology for Neurodivergent Minds
Colors aren’t just about aesthetics—they affect mood and energy levels.
Some neurodivergent-friendly colors to consider:
- Soft Greens and Blues: Promote calm and focus.
- Earthy Neutrals: Create a grounding environment.
- Avoid Bright Reds or Neon Shades: These can feel overstimulating.
Personalizing Your Space Without Overloading It
It’s your space, so make it feel like you! Just keep in mind that too much personalization can turn into visual clutter.
Ideas to try:
- Add a few meaningful objects like framed photos, plants, or a favorite piece of art.
- Use a calming screensaver or digital frame to cycle through serene nature scenes.
The Quick Wins: Easy Upgrades to Try Today
- Add a fidget basket for you and your clients.
- Use an essential oil diffuser with calming scents like lavender (check with your clients!).
- Bring in real plants for a touch of nature (and better air quality!).
- Place a grounding object like a smooth stone or weighted pillow within reach.
Why Designing for You Matters
When your office feels good to you, your clients feel it too. A space that supports your neurodivergence helps you stay grounded and present, which creates a ripple effect in your sessions.
Take Your Office to the Next Level
Need help creating a space that works for your neurodivergent brain and your clients? Set up a coaching session with me for a more individualized plan.
Looking to use your beautiful space for passive income? Visit my Membership Page to download my free “5 Tips For Renting Your Therapy Space” to optimize your space.
Let’s create a space where you (and your clients) can truly thrive.
– Dawn Leprich-Graves, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, ASDCS Clinician, Coach & Connection Catalyst
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