In my world, he should have asked first. I'd have said, "I'd rather you didn't." I'm a former smoker and being around someone who is indulging just makes me long for a drag . . . .eciggie or otherwise! And since it's a slippery slope for me, I'd rather not be tempted. If he said, "Sorry, but it's my office and my rules." (even if he said it a bit nicer than that), I'd opt out. I do agree that it is his office and he gets to set the rules, but I have the right to take my business elsewhere.


In my search for a new therapist, I tried out one who objected when I arrived to the session with a cup of coffee. She told me that she preferred all her clients concentrate on the session and not be distracted by drinking tea, coffee, soda etc. I guess she would allow a client to sip a glass of water, but I got the idea that she wasn't even too keen on that. I politely declined a second appointment.