Ensure that your client can say stop
Ensure that your client can tell you to stop or to go away. All but the most severely disabled clients should be able communicate these instructions and should be encouraged to do so.
My client won’t do as I say
One of the major challenges to the therapeutic alliance arises when the client fails to follow the therapist’s advice.
Aim for reliability before availability
Reliability is more important than availability in the long run. Clients who know when you are not available can make informed choices regarding alternative sources of support.
Check your client can read and write
Checking that your client can read & write assists both you and them. Attempting to use questionnaires, journals or bibliotherapy with someone hiding their illiteracy could end your intervention before it has begun.
Think before you act for your client
Stop and think before you take action on behalf of your client. You may be depriving them of the opportunity to help themselves (with appropriate support).