Why Does Your Therapist Ask About Objects Around the Room During Sessions?

Have you ever noticed that your therapist suddenly starts asking you about objects in the room during a session? While this may seem odd, it is actually a grounding technique designed to help you stay present and centered during moments of anxiety or dissociation. Grounding techniques are an essential part of trauma therapy and can be a valuable tool for maintaining emotional well-being during sessions.

Understanding Grounding Techniques in Therapy

Grounding techniques are designed to bring your awareness back to the present and help you feel more centered and secure. These techniques are particularly useful during sessions when you may be experiencing intense emotions or have dissociated from the here and now. Your therapist may ask you to describe the objects in the room, engage your senses, or recall specific details about the environment.

The Role of Grounding in EMDR

If you are undergoing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is commonly used to treat trauma, your therapist may use grounding techniques during bilateral stimulation. This involves having you focus on the present while your therapist guides your eye movements or uses tapping to process traumatic memories. If you begin to get overwhelmed, your therapist may use these techniques to bring you back to the present and ensure you stay physically and mentally safe during the session.

Centering Exercises for Safety and Comfort

Your therapist may also use centering exercises to ensure that you leave the session feeling safe and centered. It is common for them to make sure you are in a present headspace before allowing you to leave the therapy room. This helps you transition from the therapeutic environment back to your daily routine with a sense of stability and security.

Common Grounding Techniques

One popular grounding technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 method, which involves:

5 things you can see 4 things you can touch 3 things you can hear 2 things you can smell 1 thing you can taste

This technique helps you ground yourself by engaging all of your senses, bringing you back to the present moment. Your therapist may also ask you less structured questions, such as 'What is the color of the wallpaper?', 'Do you see any patterns?', or 'What are you wearing today?', which can help you stay present and focused.

Open Communication with Your Therapist

If you ever find yourself confused about why your therapist is asking about objects in the room, it is perfectly acceptable to ask about it. It is important to communicate openly with your therapist about your feelings and any concerns you may have. This can help build trust and ensure that you are comfortable with the therapy process.

Your therapist’s goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. If you ever feel unsure or uncomfortable, be sure to discuss it with your therapist. They may have a specific purpose for these questions, and understanding this can help you feel more secure during sessions.

Conclusion

Grounding techniques are a vital tool in therapy, especially when dealing with trauma and intense emotions. If you notice your therapist asking you about objects in the room, know that they are using these techniques to help you stay present and secure. By being open and communicating with your therapist, you can work together to achieve the best possible therapeutic outcomes.

Keywords: therapist, grounding technique, EMDR