First off, do you even have an office?? I didn't for so many years. Most schools will make an effort to provide you with some kind of space, but it's not always readily or consistently available. I've worked in the hallway, a lot, and have even held therapy sessions in a CLOSET! Yes, a PE closet. Insert palm to forehead here. This space, as you might guess, is not appropriate for therapy sessions. Not only are you you in close quarters with the students which can be uncomfortable, it can also pose as a safety risk and affect confidentiality. These types of rooms don't have a window which is needed to protect yourself from any potential violent behaviors or from a student accusing you of inappropriate behavior. If you leave the door open, you're increasing the chances of violating confidentiality as many of these closets are located in busy areas of the school. I worked in a hallway for at least 4 years in an elementary school. This area isn't much better. Not only is confidentiality almost completely disregarded, it is extremely distracting to the student. It's difficult to keep their attention and engaged. And a high school student may refuse to see you completely if it's not in private. If this sounds familiar I encourage you to advocate, advocate, advocate! Don't be afraid to be the "squeaky wheel". Ask to use the principals office if it's for a short time, an office in the library, or an empty classroom. Maybe there's someone in the building only part-time whose space you can use. Make sure your supervisor is aware and ask that they advocate for you as well. If you've advocated it may simply be there is no space at all, which is very likely. In this case be as creative as possible. Maybe a teacher is on plan or the library is empty! Consider all your options!
If you have your own space/office, that's amazing, congrats! Don't ever let it go! Haha! I like to change things around in my office and even ask my students what they think and to help me rearrange the furniture. Some benefit from the physical activity!
The most popular item in my office is a tiny zen garden. It sets on the round table in the middle of my room. I have 2 chairs at this table, one on wheels, one stationary and I can easily roll to this table from my desk in my own chair. It's the go to spot. As I watch people enter my room and sit down, I observe they automatically pick up the little tools and begin to play in the sand. It's so rewarding to see so many people benefit from this small item. Even staff enjoy it! I have some teachers come to my room just to sit and play in the tiny zen garden! They provide a sense of calm and control for the person using it. They're great for classrooms too! Here are some options for your review.
One of my coworkers, a teacher, has this Zen Garden in her classroom. Again it's so interesting to see how kids are just drawn to it!
I have one similar to this. Very simple, affordable, and even has some miniatures that can be manipulated within the tray. Check it out!
Other items you have in your room may depend on your particular student clientele. For example, if you work with young students, you may want to have more play items in your room. If you work with high school students you might consider more card/board games and having some go to printed lessons on hand. Below is a list of items that work with all ages and how I use them.
Jenga!!! It's so fun and challenging. You can use this to simply build rapport in the early sessions which is necessary for building trust and getting to know your students. I made mine "extra"! I numbered each block and have corresponding questions. You can purchase my own categories of questions here . They include getting to know you, emotions, grief and loss, self-esteem, and more! And of course, the game.
Another popular item I have is a Zen Meditation Board. You draw on it with water and the brushes included and the image disappears as it dries! It's very relaxing and can serve as a distraction for students which helps them refocus on the present moment. Great for mindfulness practice too!
As you probably know, most schools have florescent lighting, which can increase anxiety, make it difficult to focus, and cause headaches. I use these light coverings to dim the florescent lighting in my room. It makes a significant difference!
All of these items contribute to the ambiance of my office and are helpful to therapy sessions! Especially, when a student is dysregulated. They can simply choose an item and sit in quiet. Don't underestimate being quiet! It's ok and can support rapport building, emotional regulation, and a sense of calm.
Here are some other items I find to be very helpful. I hope you find something that works for you!
This Retro Vibes Sound Machine
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