What is the term used for a mutually agreed upon set of expectations, rules, and policies in a therapy setting?

The term for a mutually agreed upon set of expectations, rules, and policies in a therapy setting is a contract. This is because a contract outlines the responsibilities and rights of both the therapist and the client, ensuring that both parties are clear about what is expected in their interactions. Contracts create a framework for the therapeutic relationship, promoting accountability and clarity, which are essential for effective therapy.

In a therapeutic context, contracts can encompass various components such as confidentiality agreements, payment terms, session frequency, and cancellation policies. By establishing these parameters, both the therapist and the client work collaboratively towards therapeutic goals, fostering a safe and structured environment for progress.

While agreements, protocols, and guidelines may share similarities with a contract, they do not encompass the full essence of mutual commitment and expectation that a contract implies. Agreements may be informal and lack the formal structure found in contracts, while protocols and guidelines typically refer to standardized procedures or recommendations rather than a personalized framework between therapist and client.