One Shot Collection | LT

Hard Times

In the quiet office...the decorum typical of most offices. Large, wood desk adorned with picture frames of loved ones. A stack of files neatly organized and a flat screen computer monitor angled in the corner. The rug is a delicate red color, made from fine wool, infused with the kind of white that brings memories of baby breath flowers. It's soft underfoot, and warmer than the wooden floor around. The furniture has a simplicity and a flare all at once, it's bright in color and happy in vibe. Against the wall is a beautiful painting, as if the painter's soul was upon that canvas. It has a story of colors and hope. This type of office is the perfect place for such. It's a therapist office and anyone who steps in and takes a glance at that painting should instantly feel at ease...feel the hope so beautifully portrayed. In the middle of the office sits the therapist clad in an all black business pant suit, purple heels for a pop of color, her legs crossed as a notepad rests on top of her thighs and a pen in her hand. Her hair in a tight bun and her face adorned with a chic pair of glasses with a black frame. The glasses add something to her face, a certain poise. They do more than frame her eyes, they add an extra window to her soul. Her credentials are plastered on the wall as with any professional, and by the way she's so well put together, it's evident she takes her career seriously, though admittedly, the tension in the room with her two new clients makes her unsure as to how to get this session started because across from her, on the long, comfortable couch, a soft beige color, they just...sit. They're on opposite ends of the couch and haven't looked much at each other upon arriving. Dr. Bain has counseled several couples, but they rarely sit so far apart and they still look at each other while also engaging with her. She decides to try an icebreaker since they're twins...

Dr. Bain: "This is one of the very times I've counseled twins and now that I know your names I'll try to guess who you are. You're Larry and you're Laurent". 

She guessed incorrectly, but in this case it was kind of a good thing because one of them finally speaks up to correct her...

"Actually, I'm Larry". 

Dr. Bain: *smile* "I see". *pause* "Well it's nice to meet you both". 

Larry: "It's nice to meet you too", he replies softly. 

She gently nods then looks over at Laurent who replies the same, and also in a soft tone. She can easily sense the reluctance which is understandable as counseling is typically seen as very unnerving, particularly to those who have never been to a session, but they only have one hour and she wants to make sure every minute is fulfilled...

Dr. Bain: "Before we get started, I have to go through my counselor spiel".

She smiled and used her fingers to make air quotes when she said "counselor spiel" as she was hoping this would crack the ice and make them feel more at ease. She does receive a slight chuckle from Larry and a slight smile from Laurent. It was nice to see their friendly reaction, but she also believes the issue which brought them here today has a sense of urgency so she decides to quickly get the preliminary stuff out of the way so they can get right into the session...

Dr. Bain: "First, it is imperative that I let you both know I am bound by the ethics of my profession, and as such, everything that is said between the three of us won't leave this office".

There's a brief pause as she waits for them to respond, and when she receives a head nod from them she expects one to tell her the reason for their visit, but when they don't she uses her experience, her genuine concern and her angst to help them however she can...

Dr. Bain: "If you're feeling nervous or unsure on what to say or how to say it I just want you to know that I completely understand. My job is to ease any worries or fears you have about disclosing what brought you to see me today. I will listen fully with my primary goal being to help you as much as I am able to".