Designing a Waiting Room for a Counseling Office

When patients enter a counseling waiting room, it’s often the first impression they receive. It is important to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere — one that supports well being, clarity and connection.

A key question that comes to mind in regards to a counselor’s patients is “What is on my patients mind and how can I make them feel supported?”

Patients may arrive to appointments overwhelmed and may be feeling worried or anxious. This creates an opportunity for the physical design of the waiting room to be the first therapeutic support clients encounter. It is crucial to put effort into designing the waiting room and to plan out what effect you want the room to have.

Below are a number of design tips and thoughtful ideas to consider that will lead to increased presence, help generate a sense of calm, and also build trust with your clients.

A counseling waiting room should have clarity, comfort and connection.

Provide clarity.

One of our first considerations in counseling waiting areas is to provide clarity for clients. This could be a simple sign that directs patients where to go and/or what to expect as they arrive. Many counseling offices do not have a dedicated receptionist, so directive signage will provide instruction and help answer questions someone new to the practice may have.

Providing clarity helps patients feel at ease.

The waiting room should be a space to unwind but be functional. Consider posting the wifi code for family members that are sticking around for the appointment.

Are signs clearly displayed for the restrooms?

The waiting room is the perfect opportunity to provide client branding information — for example the counselors’ core values, backgrounds and stories.

Are there books and magazines available for all ages and genders?

Paint Colors that make you feel good.

There is significant evidence based design research that color promotes healing in healthcare environments. Our go-to palette for waiting rooms have gender neutral colors that bring out a sense of warmth and well being. Lighter colors will reflect the light in the space, which helps people to see better — especially an aging population who may have visual difficulties.

White walls can be a good choice and support a sense of clarity. When using white, make sure the furniture provides color contrast to help ground the space.

Nice White SW 6063

This is one of our go-to whites for waiting rooms.

The images in this article feature some of our favorite Sherwin William paint color swatches that we recommend for counseling spaces. Perhaps these color recommendations will help you make decisions on what colors would be best for your counseling waiting room projects. We consider Sherwin Williams as our primary paint source for multiple reasons. They have awesome customer service and the no VOC commercial quality paint they offer is top notch! The first color shown above is “Nice White” - which has a very subtle pink tint to it. This is one of our favorite colors to use in waiting rooms because of the warmth it exudes.

Frolic SW 6703

Greens are great color options for waiting rooms.

Experts say green is the color of balance. It is the color most associated with nature and is often utilized for healing. A lighter green is a good choice for a more conservative space, while a brighter green is a great option for young adults and children. Green is often my go-to accent wall color in healthcare. We have always received positive feedback when using the color in common spaces.

Capri SW 6788

We love the way this blue has a soothing effect in the recovery space.

Evidence based design reveals the color blue is linked to calm and serenity. It helps lower blood pressure and can reduce rapid heart rate. Blue is relaxing for the mind and body. Other color related design choices include wood finish selections and fabric upholstery color choices.

Natural wood furniture is especially grounding and will give more of an earthy element to the waiting room. However, you could also select design oriented modern furniture for a fresh look.

Consider mixing and matching different furniture pieces, especially for seating. This will provide variety in the space and allow people to make a choice where they want to sit. Some people may feel more comfortable in an armchair by themselves, and others may want to sit on a couch. Additionally, your clients may respond well to having at least one seat located in a corner. This will provide a sense of security for people with anxiety.

Building connection through artwork.

Incorporating artwork and decor will add character and a sense of place to your waiting room. Artwork can convey a safe environment, encouraging self-reflection and creative thinking. Positive messages are great, as long as they aren’t cliche, which can seem inauthentic. Avoid potential triggers for people seeking therapy for acute trauma. Images of nature are generally a good option. Also consider artwork with inclusive messages for BIPOC and LGBTQ communities.

Biophilic design, space plans and privacy:

Utilizing Biophilic elements like plants and natural daylight are a wonderful way to increase your clients sense of wellbeing. In nature, we see our core self reflected. If you are not familiar with the term biophilic design, check out my blog post here: https://www.blackwellandjennings.com/blog/biophilic-design-and-will-it-make-employees-happier

If you want to increase privacy for your clients, consider sound absorption panels. There are many decorative types available that will add color and shape to the decor. Plants can also serve as sound absorption panels.

Be careful not to clutter the space with too many decorative items. It doesn’t have to be minimal, but negative space in your layout will create a more open feeling for your clients. Unique touches in your waiting room are a way to share your personality before the client meets you for the first time. Since successful counseling is all about the relationship between client and therapist, decor can be somewhat reflective of the therapist’s personality without being too invasive.

Last but not least, when considering space planning and the layout of furniture, take into account the movement patterns people will have through the space. The seating arrangement will direct traffic patterns through the waiting room. Generally, people need to be able to move easily from the entrance to their seat, and from their seat to the therapist’s office. You’ll want to think about the flow of movement so that it’s as organic as possible.

We hope you enjoyed our design ideas for your counseling space. Are you ready to book your consultation? We can’t wait to start dreaming up design ideas for your counseling office.

Ever wonder how to get more return clients?

Do your patients feel supported when they are sharing their most intimate thoughts with you?

Book your free discovery call now and let’s discuss how we can design a supportive counseling space together.