I like the cartoon but I do have to say something about this... I believe this has nothing to do with being an "ideal" client. Because let's face it.. if therapists thought that all the things on the list would beg the question if a client needs therapy, they would be out of work pretty quickly. I believe those things on the list are what makes a therapist feel they are doing a good job. If people pay on time it means they have a feeling of mutual responsibility. If they feel the client demonstrates a desire to change, then it means they have the skills to instill exactly that in a client. If a client turns up to sessions and doesn't cancel frequently, they know that the client is willing to work, is not "testing" them or their commitment etc. I believe every client "works hard" in their own individual strength.
The out of session issue.. I have a very strong feeling about that! But I think I will open a new thread with that one.. But briefly, in my opinion if a therapist thinks a good client is one who has as little out of session contact as possible, I think he has chosen the wrong profession.

Even though I find the comic funny, I also feel it's a little offending.. Because it makes me, the apparently "ideal" client question, what value I have as a client if I do what I think is right! How can someone assume that the healthy parts inside me, the ones that make me do all the things on the list are a sign that I don't need help?