Sometimes it is important for a client to take things in stages. If they have had something for a long time their identity and life becomes built around their condition. In this case working in agreed steps is a better idea than rushing straight in.

An example would be in treating agoraphobia. First work at getting the client to walk to the front door, the following week to open the door without fear, or maybe to step into the garden. Over the following weeks, working to the client's pace, build up to walking to the local post box, shops and eventually towns, fields and beyond.