I tell my T about the times when I have felt like I needed to hide under my desk. Then we can talk about what was going on and why I felt that way. The only reasons for 'committing' you would be if you are a danger to self or others. Needing to hug a stuffed animal doesn't seem to be in that category. If it helps you, go ahead and take the alligator. Maybe you can curl up in the corner of the chair or couch and talk about it. And if you take the alligator, it is still your choice what you want to say, or even if you take the alligator out of your bag at all.