What do clients want from therapy? A practice-friendly review of research into client preferences

Abstract

A central theme in pluralistic counselling and psychotherapy is the willingness of the therapist to engage with the client's understanding and experience around what he or she finds helpful. A substantial research literature exists around the topic of client expectations and preferences for different types of psychotherapeutic interventions and activities, and the impact of these factors on the outcome and process of therapy. The findings of these studies are reviewed in relation to their implications for practice. An example of how client preferences can play a role in the process of therapy is illustrated through a case study. Possible directions for further research are discussed.