Preparing the Ground
(agreeing how we will work together in counselling and psychotherapy)

Many therapists agree a 'contract' with their clients. Whilst I don't use the work 'contract', I do seek to find an agreed way of working together, so that we are both clear about what we can expect of and from each other. I call this 'Preparing the Ground'. As we begin, it can be very useful to establish a mutually agreed understanding of how we may best work together in ways you find most helpful. 

Initial meetings can involve the sharing of a lot of practical information and it may not always be easy to remember it all, especially if you have been feeling anxious or distressed. In our discussion I will give you a verbal overview of the arrangements we agree but I also provide this information page Preparing the Ground. This summarises information such as: how I work; confidentiality and its limits; where and when meetings occur and their frequency; missing or cancelling sessions; ending our work together; fees and payment; how to contact me outside of our session times; and what to do if you are not happy with any aspect of our work.

Please check over the details yourself, and if you have any questions about it these can be discussed and clarified at any meeting. In my view this informed agreement is particularly important; therapy depends on your feeling free of all coercion and having confidence, as you face the issues of importance to you, that you are being supported in ways that are fitting for you.

What are your preferences for how we work together?

This question is an important one at the start of working together in counselling, but it is not always an easy one to answer, especially if this is a new experience for you. Part of my role is to explore it with you. An online preference questionnaire has been developed by Mick Cooper and John Norcross, two therapy researchers with a particular interest in how therapy can best fit us as individuals. Please ask me if you have any questions about this.

​'Before anything else, preparation is the key to success'.

Alexander Graham Bell.