DATE:DEC 17 2024
Session Type: In-Person – Fourth
Patient: Male, 31, Single, Administrative Employee
Persistent sensation and sound of slow footsteps directly behind him, despite no visible presence. The patient hesitated before entering the office. His gaze fixed on the end of the hallway—not with panic, but with cautious anticipation. When he stepped inside, he did not fully close the door. His hand remained on the handle several seconds longer than necessary. He adjusted his chair slightly forward so the wall behind him remained within view. Throughout the session, his eyes returned to the space over his shoulder at measured intervals. The movement was automatic. Conditioned. Not theatrical. He began calmly: “It started a week ago. At first, I thought I misheard it… but now I’m sure.” He described the sound as consistently slow. Not hurried. Not heavy. Just precise. “If I stop walking, it stops. If I move, it keeps the exact same distance.” He has never seen anyone. Only heard the steps. For him, that is enough.
therapist notes
Approximately ten minutes into the session, the patient abruptly paused mid-sentence. His head tilted slightly. His gaze fixed on the door. His breathing became shallow. Softly, he said: “It’s here now.” No sound was audible inside the room. When asked what happens if he turns around, he replied: “It stops. Every time I turn, it stops.” His tone carried certainty, not confusion. He clarified that the issue is not merely the sound. “It feels like it’s measuring the distance.” I asked, “Measuring it for what?” A longer silence followed. “Maybe to know when it’s time to come closer.” Thought processes remained coherent. No severe cognitive disorganization observed. Anxiety level elevated but structured. He does not present as terrified. He presents as vigilant.
Read the Full Therapy Session
Gain access to all episodes, uncensored therapist notes, and classified conclusions.
Become VIPThis content is restricted to subscribers
therapist s personal notes
While leaving the building, I felt the distinct sensation that someone was walking behind me. One step. Pause. Another step. I stopped. Listened. Nothing. I resumed walking. Slower this time. Three steps forward. The sense of presence remained. Even without sound. The next session is scheduled in three days. The seating arrangement will be adjusted. The patient will not sit near the wall. Neither will I.
