Descriptions of Treatment and Outcomes Between Two Groups of Family Therapy Clients

Abstract

This exploratory and descriptive study examines differences between two groups of family therapy clients: those who terminated after completing therapy goals (completers), and those who terminated therapy after three sessions but did not complete therapy goals (continuers). A main focus of this research was type of change targeted, first order change versus second order change. The researcher examined and compared therapy goals, interventions, diagnosis information, a numerical rating of each therapy goal and a text description of therapy achievement. This study found that for both groups, most therapy goals were specific to each case and first order change focused. Overall interventions used were mostly second order for both groups, with similar percentages of first versus second order interventions between groups. The differences included financial resources (more for completers), and the specific interventions used (interventions for completers targeted the family's interactions and therapeutic relationship). These findings support the research that stresses joining and focusing on process throughout treatment.