The use of readings in guided self-management treatment serves multiple functions:

· They communicate the treatment approach in an understandable and consistent way.

· They provide a framework that clients can use to evaluate and change their own behavior.

· They are constantly available to the client.

· Providing clients with the first reading at assessment helps to capitalize upon the self-change momentum that started when the client called for an appointment.

· The readings and the associated homework provide the “running start” for treatment

· The readings provide background information so that the session time can be spent on assessing the client’s understanding of the treatment approach rather than explaining the approach.

· Compliance with the readings and homework can indicate the client’s commitment to making serious efforts to change.