Before therapy begins, you should understand the proposal and have a real opportunity to decide. This is often called “informed consent”: an explanation, answers to your questions and agreement with an understanding of the main options and possible difficulties.
A signature is not enough if the form is unclear. You can request a simpler explanation or time to read.
Making the proposal understandable
Discuss the goal, what sessions involve, possible benefits and what may be difficult. If an exercise involves facing something you fear, for example, the therapist should explain why and how the steps will be agreed.
Clarify alternatives, costs, records, who can access information and circumstances in which it may be shared. Understand any proposed involvement of relatives, supervisors or other professionals.
You can revisit the agreement
In voluntary care, you can ask questions, decline an exercise or decide to stop. The therapist may explain how that affects the help they can offer and discuss alternatives.
You can say: “I understand the purpose, but I’m not ready for this step. Can we discuss it?” A refusal should receive a conversation, without threats or shaming.
Special legal arrangements can apply in compulsory care. If a restriction is claimed, ask for a specific explanation and where to obtain independent advice.