Letter-writing practices in a child and family service

This study examined the letter-writing practices in a child and family psychology service. Utilizing a grounded theory approach to data collection and analysis, six clinical psychologists (including one pilot study) were interviewed about their letter-writing practices in relation to direct clinical work and in correspondence with other professionals. Analysis of the data yielded five themes: typical practices, use of clinical and micro skills, letters addressing the relationship with the family, messages to other professionals, and beliefs about the family. Findings suggest that letters are used in a variety of ways including being an aide-mémoire of the contents of face-to-face meetings, directly addressing the therapeutic relationship with the client, demonstrating respect, and informing other professionals of psychological practices and views regarding clients and their presenting problems. It emerged that letter-writing is seen to exist in the wider context of social relationships, between the referrer, clinician and client. The results are discussed in relation to clinical practices and future areas of study.