I tend to regard the initial session as a two way assessment. The objective of this session is to see if both client and therapist can work together. As a therapist I facilitate the person in telling their story, what has brought them to therapy and what their expectations of the work are. This may take more than one session.
I explain and discuss my verbal contract which outlines :-
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The issue of confidentiality. |
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An agreed time and day each week. |
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Cancellation policy. |
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Fees and method of payment. Payment is at the end of each session. |
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Commitment to the work. |
There is no obligation to proceed after the initial session. If you decide to go ahead I will give you an appointment that is suitable to both of us.
It is one hour.
Therapy is not about giving answers, suggesting ideas or prescribing solutions. It is about working with supporting and facilitating the person to discover what it is that they want or need. It is also important to be clear about what you want.