Safe space is used a lot these days to describe many different environments from the yoga studios to therapy offices. As we become more trauma informed or trauma aware, we often want to invite folks to come and feel comfortable within our spaces but how are we ensuring that in fact, our space is safe for them? What indicators do we use to make sure we are upholding this idea?
When working with the public in my therapy practice, I want clients to come into my part of the world and feel as though they are able to let their walls down. I hope for them to feel as though they can share with me their struggles, fears, concerns as well as their successes and excitements without fear or judgement. But again, the questions lingers, HOW do I know that I am achieving this "safe place?"
Within the therapeutic relationship, the client is the expert, not me. They know the intricacies of their lived experiences and they know how they don’t want to feel or behave any more. What they require is a support person who can help them make sense of the puzzle pieces they hold, how they might connect to move them towards the goals they seek. Throughout this process of exploration, the client may be aware of what triggers they have which allows us to move around them cautiously or work towards facing them. Its my job to ask the client to bring me into their circle of awareness so that I can be sensitive to these triggers and maintain a respectful environment.
Although, its not always clear what will be a trigger for the client and when we stumble across one, it can cause a "safe place" to suddenly become dangerous and unsettling. This can be hard for both the client and the therapist. Hopefully, a trusting relationship has been established so that you can work through the rubble together and be able to create a plan for future sessions.
As I work towards my yoga teacher certificate, this concept of safe space also arose. Although we seek to provide such a space where individuals can come and connect to their breathe and body without fear or judgment, we are unaware of what each student bring to their mats. I may be guiding the class, yet the student still has autonomy to chose what makes them comfortable throughout their time on their mats. Although it may seem safe, laying on your back at the end of class may seem too vulnerable. A physical adjustment to their posture may turn out to be an unwelcome physical sensation. I strive to create a space where they can use movement to build a deeper connection with themselves while feeling supported by the community within.
With both environments, I believe that it's important to open up dialogue with the client because they are the expert, they know what's best for themselves. In therapy we can be specific with one another about expectations and evaluating readiness. Within the yoga studio, its about reminding students that my teachings are a suggestion and they are to take the pose that feel most right for them.
What is safe for me may not be what is safe for another. Its up to me to show up as my authentic self and allow others to shift into their own control and power. I want to work with you while you navigate the questions, ideas and conflicts life brings in the pace that feels right for you. I look forward to expanding my space for others and creating "safe spaces" together, however it looks.
Xo Dee
#authenticsupport #clientempowerment #collaborativehealing #mindfulmats #yogawithintention #rnpsychotherapist #mindsetshifter #maplemindset
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