Counselling in independent practice - Gabrielle Syme

This text demonstrates and reflects the care and responsibility that must be taken by anyone considering counselling in independent practice. It is based upon the experience of a practitioner. For anyone contemplating setting up in private or independent practice as a counsellor or psychotherapist, it should offer a useful model. It explores in depth the practical, ethical and personal issues that should be considered before taking such a major step. Concluding with a critique of private and independent practice, the book aims to make a contribution to the current debate about the difference between minimum standards set by Codes of Ethics and Practice for counsellors and what is good practice.

The professional practitioner should recognize the points of discussion raised by the author. For this group, the book provides a yardstick by which to assess the quality of service they provide and the relationship that they maintain with their clients. With its exploration of this relationship, the book should be of interest to anyone considering counselling or psychotherapeutic help, and those referring patients or colleagues.