Expectations and experiences of psychological therapy from the client perspective: a qualitative study

This article examines how client expectations about psychological therapy compare with subjective experiences of undertaking therapy. We interviewed 10 clients who had recently completed therapy about their expectations and experiences, and thematically analysed data in the template style. Three themes are presented ([1]”I didn't know what I was capable of”; [2] “It's 50% me, 50% her”; [3] “You take your stabilisers off and off you go”) which describe the experience of psychological therapy from the client perspective, and highlight how expectations compared to experiences of therapy, and changed over time. Findings could inform the development of materials to ensure those referred to therapy are well informed and prepared for therapy, potentially promoting improved client experiences and therapy engagement.