Who to See, and Other Choices

Client choices are understood across two dimensions: constrained/unconstrained and well-informed/poorly informed. Distinctions are drawn between the need for consistency in individual therapy and the much wider range of choices of who to see in shorter-term systemic family therapy. The need for flexibility is underlined in both modalities. Adaptability at both verbal and non-verbal level is illustrated in individual therapy with a case involving serious self-harm. In family therapy, the practice of flexibly meeting with a range of sub-systems (including individuals), rather than just with the whole family, is endorsed for its greater safety. This is illustrated through a session with a mother and daughter.