ABSTRACT
Contracting and establishing a framework within which therapy can take place are integral parts of the counselling and psychotherapy process. The therapeutic frame allows the therapist to define the therapeutic relationship; its terms and limitations. The therapeutic frame and contract are what differentiate therapy from other kinds of “helping” conversations such as might be had with a friend, a priest or other family member. A thoughtful and well-designed frame for therapy will undoubtedly have a major impact upon the success of the work which takes place within it. Once the frame and contract have been established and agreed upon, both parties can feel safe enough to begin the therapeutic work. The following chapter examines how the contract is important in establishing the frame for therapeutic work with children and young people and where particular care and attention are required due to the complexities of contracting with this group in private practice.
