Yes, I learned this one a long time ago when I lived in New York. I had this doctor who spoke perfect English and then he spoke French with his wife who was also his nurse. Then all of the sudden he was counting in German! I was blown away and confused. He explained to me that people will count (especially when it is money or something important) in whatever language they were taught to count in, no matter how long they have spoken another language. I have found this "rule" to be true no matter the language.
Interesting idea about the situations that help them to feel more comfortable..... AND why do you think I am asking people here... it is real time research!