In this study the influence of discrepancy between preferences of the client and the residential treatment on working alliance and satisfaction in the beginning phase of treatment is examined. The results indicate that the larger the lack of congruence between preferences of the client and what is realised during treatment, the more negative the client rate the working alliance. Also, the level of discrepancy is significantly negatively correlated with the satisfaction of the client. The results of this study underpin the importance of preferences in the beginning phase of treatment and argue for a more client-directed treatment selection.