Client G

Date: January 2016

Space: Spare Bedroom

Client G had no space to live in her two bedroom double wide. At the point we were called in the second bedroom was completely full of boxes. The problem was exacerbated by cats and small dog. Additionally, Client G had mobility issues, which meant a cramped and cluttered space was even harder for her to navigate. It was dark and dusty. The situation was depressing and overwhelming.

Our first step was to sort through the items in the spare bedroom. The goal was to see the greatest change in the shortest amount of time. As two organizers pulled boxes out and sorted through, grouping like items (papers, books, makeup…), we created a space where Client G could make decisions in the greatest physical comfort (“Trash”, “Donate”, “Save”). Where Client G differed from most hoarding clients, is that she had reached her limit. By the end of her first session she was able to provide significant guidelines for items to be trashed and donated. She trusted us enough to stick to those guidelines as we went through the rest of her space.

Those items that held emotional significance were put aside. Items that were “Saved” were put to the side as we went through the rest of the house. A second decluttering occurred after Client G had become comfortable making deeper cuts. By the end of three months we were able to make the space into a guest bedroom/library/craft room.

Lessons Learned: When your space is overwhelming you, it is time to ask for help. You might need someone to help you decide where to start. Or someone to help you physically, mentally and emotionally begin the decluttering process.