What is a safe space?
Do you remember Alice in Wonderland? There is a scene where the Red Queen would scream “off with their heads!” at anyone without rhyme or reason. Well, she is a good example of how not to create a safe space for people.
In counselling, creating a safe space for you is one of the most important elements. Without a safe space, the counselling process turns into a waste of your time and energy.
What would a safe space feel like?
Have a think about what makes you feel safe. Is it being in nature? Is it creating your favourite homemade meal? Is it a beloved teddy?
My safe space is one where I am accepted just as I am. I don’t have to do anything. I don’t have to be anything. I am not shamed or judged. I am protected from harm and encouraged to dream big. My counselling room aims to create a safe space for you that is free from judgment where you receive unconditional positive regard and empathy.
The practical elements of a safe space
The practical elements of a safe space include the room, lighting and choice of seating. The room itself is important. The aim of the room is to provide you a sense of safety and comfort. The size of the room matters. A really big room creates distance instead of connection between you and me. But a very small room suffocates our connection.
Another factor is lighting. Soft or natural lighting encourages a sense of calm and quietness, which might be the opposite of what you are feeling on the inside in the first session.
To encourage a sense of safety and choice, the seating arrangement is up to you. You sit first, pick the chair and cushions you want, and I’ll go next. Your physical comfort is important because in the counselling session, you are going to be doing some inner work, and you deserve to be comfortable while you do it.
Nature views from a window or in the wall art can provide some relief from the intense concentration in the room. So don’t be afraid to pause and admire the view. There is a lot of literature that support the positive effects of connecting with nature, so let’s use it in the session to your advantage to increase connection and comfort.
Why a safe space is important
- A safe space allows you to feel safe too
- A safe space cultivates a sense of acceptance
- A safe space allows you to disclose vulnerabilities without fear or judgement
- A safe space enables you to be heard and validated
- A safe space encourages you to reflect on alternative perspectives
- A safe space encourages you in your journey of personal growth
- A safe space provides opportunities to learn and practice new psychological skills at your own pace
The counselling room provides a physically safe space. I (as the counsellor) can provide a psychological safe space by working within my qualifications, maintaining confidentiality, and through using an integrated person-centered counselling approach. When you feel safe, then you can make meaningful connections with others, regulate your emotions and learn new psychological skills. For example, you could grow in the ACT principles of self-awareness and psychological flexibility.
Going back to the metaphor in Alice in Wonderland, the Red Queen ruled through fear. In my counselling room, I endeavour to remove fear and trepidation through being intentional in providing a safe space where your safety is paramount.
Everyone needs a safe space to reflect, heal and find their peace. Will my counselling room become your safe space?
To make an appointment with Cassia Haase, please Book Online or call Vision Psychology Brisbane on 07 3088 5422.
References
Anbar, R. D. (2023). Growth within and outside of a safe space. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/understanding-hypnosis/202307/growth-within-and-outside-of-a-safe-space
Andrew, L., Boxall, K, Coall, D., Dare, J., Karthigesu, S., & Sim, M. (2023). What makes a safe space? Consumers’ perspectives on a mental health safe space. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing. DOI: 10.1111/inm.13174
Caporuscio, J. (2024). The power of creating a safe space in counselling: a clinician’s perspective. Wellspring Center for Prevention. https://wellspringprevention.org/blog/creating-safe-space-counseling/
Pearson, M. R., & Wilson, H. (2012). Soothing spaces and healing places: is there an ideal counselling room design? Psychotherapy in Australia. 18(3). 46-53. https://research.usc.edu.au/esploro/outputs/journalArticle/Soothing-spaces-and-healing-places-Is/99449283502621/filesAndLinks?index=0