Pilot project at the University of Bristol, UK: Effectiveness of training family therapists about the therapeutic alliance

Researchers: Valentín Escudero, John Carpenter, Mark Rivett (School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, UK)

This pilot study is designed to assess the effectiveness of training Diploma-level family therapy students in their acquisition of conceptual, observational, and executive skills relating to the Therapeutic Alliance (TA).

The overall aims are to investigate the potential, through training and supervision, to improve the ability of therapists to create and maintain TA and, if so, whether this will increase clients' satisfaction, and result in better therapy outcomes.

The design comprised: (a) baseline measurement of trainees' (n = 8) knowledge of TA and observational skills to recognize alliance related behaviours; (b) specific training based on the SOFTA model for trainees and their supervisors; (c) assessing a sample of trainees' therapy sessions during a six month period; (d) repeating the initial evaluation of knowledge and observational skills; (e) assessing clients' satisfaction with therapy and the outcomes for the index child (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire). A comparison group of clinicians who have not received SOFTA training will participate in (a) and (d).

Download here the research protocol