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Choosing Office Space


Choosing office space can be both exciting and excruciating. Set a budget and stay within it. You can always upgrade your space later. Think of your audience. If you conduct play therapy you need more floor space. If you provide many group services you need access to room that can accommodate 10 people comfortably. Ideally, you want to create a peaceful environment from the time the clients enter the office. Warm greetings with cold water or hot coffee on a stressful day can go along way with clients. Consider these things when you are selecting office space for lease or purchase:

  • Amenities such as included internet, printing, faxing, front desk staff, IT support can aide your budget
  • Parking
  • Zoning
  • Accessibility from other areas of town
  • Use of other rooms in the building including group, kitchens and conference rooms
  • ADA compliance for clients with mobility challenges
  • Snow removal and lawn care services
  • Bus route proximity
  • Waiting room layout 
As you decorate your office be mindful that the small details are important
  • Furniture selection. Think comfort as well as aesthetics
  • Buy the good Kleenex
  • Clean daily and weekly or hire someone to do so
  • Use plug ins or other deodorizers to keep the office free of odor
  • Have fidgets available to all clients 
  • Avoid strong fluorescent lighting. Use floor lamps
  • Keep post it notes on hand for quick resources for clients
  • Invest in a professional sign
  • Have beverages such as water, tea and coffee available with creamer and sugar

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