Hi Karen... I think as everyone has said, it's pretty sressful at the set up stage, almost however you do it. F2F meeting with IP as Andy suggests is a good idea if practical as you have a greater opportunity to ask questions and get to understand the process as it will apply to you....also, IVA is an important financial commitmewnt and to feel you have 'a relationship' with the most important person in it (other than yourself) probably helps.
Having siad all of that, like CAT, I didn't take that opportunity initially and yet despite the stress of phones conversations etc, it all went ok and so far, touch wood, the arrangements working well. Just look for an IP you feel comfortable with, i.e., is easilly accessible and provides answers to your questions and useful information in a way that works for you.... there's loads of IP's out there, though I've yet to hear of any with a reputation as good as Melanie Giles...
Best of luck and hand in there....however you do it, I'm sure everyone would agree it's a positive step and one you won't regret...especially in 5 years time...
Martin
