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DRAFT — Session structure minimum standard (Associate Handbook)

Purpose

Set a clear minimum standard for how sessions are structured so clients experience consistency and retention improves.

First 1–3 sessions (minimum standard)

  • Session 1:
    • 1.1 Orientation + goals: confirm what brings the client in, what “better” would look like, and what a first phase of therapy might focus on.
    • 1.2 Between-session support (“homework”): if you offer between-session practices/tasks, please keep them light and achievable. Please do not overwhelm the client with too many homework tasks unless the client specifically asks for it.
    • 1.3 Consent + boundaries reminder: confirm limits of confidentiality and the clinic communication/cancellation expectations as needed.
    • 1.4 Cadence recommendation: offer a suggested frequency for the first few sessions and how you will reassess.
    • 1.5 Book the next session: whenever possible, please book the next appointment before ending the session.
  • Session 2–3:
    • [TODO: define expectations: review goals, early progress check, adjust plan, confirm cadence, book ahead]

Cadence recommendation (example language)

The cadence for therapy session is usually once every two weeks for individual therapy. We can recommend therapy once a week when a client strongly prefers it or is in need of extra support. Couples counselling is recommended once every two weeks or once per month once rapport is established. There are exceptions to these cadence recommendations depending on the client/s, and context. Associates may use their clinical judgment to recommend. In general, sessions more than once a week are discouraged, but may happen in extentuating circumstances.

Example script:

“Based on what you’re dealing with, I usually recommend meeting [weekly/biweekly] for the first [X] sessions, and then we reassess.”

Booking next session (retention habit)

  • At the end of sessions, ask directly if they’d like to book the next appointment.
  • Offer to reschedule if they cancel/reschedule (see Scheduling).

Notes

  • Keep it human and client-led—this is a consistency floor, not a rigid protocol.