Room Size Matters in Behavioral Health Outpatient Facilities

Any enclosed room sends a message to its occupants. This is especially the case for consultation rooms in a behavioral health facility. They’re often six-by-eight feet in size, which happens to be the same as a jail cell. The negative associations are strong for client and counselor alike.

By contrast, a larger room size benefits clients, who often need to walk and talk during therapy sessions. They may also have a family member, patient advocate, or translator with them in a therapy room, so it is important to be able to accommodate everyone comfortably.

Larger therapy rooms also allow for variety and choice in furnishings. Some clients and counselors prefer to meet in a lounge setting, so outfitting rooms with two chairs and an occasional table creates a relaxed space. In other cases, a table with two chairs—more like an office setting—is most functional. However the rooms are designed, warm colors, comfortable furniture, and residential styling contribute to a more positive experience for both client and staff.

There’s also the need to allow visibility into group and therapy rooms to alert staff members of unusual movement or a threatening situation. Some level of sound dampening is desired for confidentiality, but raised voices need to be heard outside the rooms to allow for situations to be quickly acted upon.

These and other considerations are outlined in a recent article by Doug Bazuin, a senior researcher for Le Office Furniture Manufacturer, Inc., and Cheri Hicks, an interior designer for WorkSquared. Their insights, varied and based on work with several behavioral health organizations, can be summed up in one statement: design a space that honors clients and staff by creating a balance of hospitality and safety.


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