Doctor, Doctor...

Last week I played doctor in a session...but I really wasn't in to it! It was a great learning experience for our intern, Michelle to watch. Very rarely do I get upset during a session or fearful, but it happened. I was telling the child to give me space and she wouldn't listen, so finally Tara gave me a break and our other intern, Heather, saved me by letting me hang out in an empty therapy room with her!

Here's what happened...I was following the lead of the client, like I always do! We played hide and seek (I love that game) and we played with the dress up clothes and kitchen, but then she wanted to play doctor. She made me the doctor and I don't know what to do as the doctor, so I sat there. It was fun for a few minutes, but she kept touching my ears with the stethoscope and it scared me!! Tara gave her directives to give me space and I easily communicated to Tara what I was feeling and she understood.

We tried lots of boundary lessons, but they were not working. I really like all my clients, but sometimes I don't like the games! After I left, I heard Tara and the client talking about giving people space and how sometimes we don't agree with the boundaries people set, but they are there for a reason.

I hope to play with this client again, but with a clear understanding of how to be around a dog...after all...that is what I am!