The Case of J: Returning to the Office

First session after returning to the office-

J missed the first two weeks of sessions after I reopened my office. He was out visiting his family during this time. He arrived for his session on time on Tuesday since Monday was a public holiday. I greeted him: “Good afternoon J.” He replied looking at me: “Good afternoon Dr. Y.”

We walked to the office, with me walking behind him. He laid down on the couch, after leaving his keys and cellphone on the other chair as if a year and a half had not elapsed since he was last in this room. I sat down on my chair behind the couch.)

A short pause

P: Wild and crazy to be back in person

I am nervous now

Now that I am here it feels super familiar. Almost as if the last 15 months did not happen. I know this room. It is so familiar. It is kind of strange how familiar it feels.

When I came in, I had a little trouble at the gate. I had forgotten how to open it.

Then my mind started to mark. That’s here, that’s not.

I am struck by how much the smell in the house reminds me of my grandparent’s apt. Dad’s dad and stepmother. It felt like I was walking into that apt. Adds a strangeness…the two things are rubbed together in a funny way.