I never was particularly curious about other patients. I saw them leave before me or arrive as I was leaving, but I never gave them much thought. I even knew a few of them, but it wasn't a big deal.

One of the people I knew was actually one of my students. I don't remember whether it was me or the student who brought it to his attention, but T shared with me that the student just said "I would guess lots of people, even teachers, need someone to talk to." And that was the end of any discussion about it. T said he discussed the need for confidentiality with the student and that was it.

I think my student's observation was spot on and very astute. Essentially it was the idea that we all have needs that are worthy of a listening ear and support and we can just accept and respect that.