A Case for Contracting in Speech and Language Therapy Practice

Abstract

In recent years, health services have moved towards a social model in the delivery of health care, in which clients and professionals are equal partners. Our initial hypothesis was that although many therapists are familiar with the concept of contracting, few employ systematic methodologies to engage with clients in a way that fosters this equal partnership. This paper discusses the need for more careful contracting in the therapy process. This discussion is based on an ongoing study following up groups of therapists who participated in contracting training. The key findings are that therapists need to learn how to contract but more importantly, may need to re-visit core values and beliefs.