TheTherapies
thetherapies.vercel.appReformulation Letter Structure Guide
A structured guide to writing reformulation letters, including pacing considerations, tone guidance, and examples of collaborative language.
Guidance on writing reformulation letters, including structure, pacing, and collaborative language.
Letter structure
1. Opening: Acknowledge the work done together so far 2. Presenting problems: What brought them to therapy 3. Life story: Key events and relationships that shaped patterns 4. Patterns identified: Traps, dilemmas, snags, reciprocal roles 5. How patterns play out now: Current manifestations 6. The therapy relationship: How patterns might show up in the work 7. Looking ahead: Hope for change, the work to come
Writing principles
- Write in the first person plural where appropriate ("we have understood...")
- Use the client's own words and phrases
- Balance honesty with compassion
- Avoid jargon — keep language accessible
- Read it aloud before the session to check tone
- Allow time for the client to respond and revise