ABSTRACT

By setting the scene, we mean not plunging straight into therapy to 'get the client better' as quickly as possible but, instead, preparing the ground before commencement of formal therapy. This involves welcoming the client in a courteous manner and engaging in a little chit-chat to break the ice. Clients asked if there are any questions they want to ask before the therapist starts to elicit their reasons for seeking counselling now. Such reasons help the therapist to assess each client's level change and tailor the discussion to show it. The therapist ask clients about their expectations of therapy, which may vary considerably to deal with any misapprehensions they may have which then lead into a brief description of CBT: looking at the thought-feeling link, taking personal responsibility for change, setting an agenda, obtaining a specific problem focus, establishing clear, concrete and measurable goals, collaborating in problem-solving, carrying out homework tasks and becoming a self-therapist, the goal of CBT.