When positioning a client for consultation, where should you be?

• A. There should be no barriers between the client and the therapist/practitioner
• B. Stand behind the client
• C. Stand at the foot of the bed
• D. Sit far away

Answer: (A)

When you position yourself for a consultation, the aim is to create open, trusting communication. Having no barriers between you and the client helps establish a sense of approachability and partnership. It makes eye contact easier, lets you read facial expressions and body language, and shows you’re focused on the client’s needs. Standing behind the client, at the foot of the bed, or sitting far away can feel distant or intimidating, hindering rapport and making the client less comfortable sharing information. So the best practice is to position yourself with no barriers, at a comfortable distance and level, directly facing the client to support clear, candid dialogue.