Differences in the Effectiveness of Psychodynamic Therapists: a Process-outcome Study

Using data from the Vanderbilt II study, 16 therapists were identified as either "more-effective" or "less-effective," and specific behaviors associated with each were identified. Effectiveness of therapists was defined by patients' outcome scores and length of stay in treatment. Measures were completed by patients, therapists, independent observers, and therapists' supervisors. In-session behaviors were assessed at sessions 3, 8, 16, 22. Results indicated that more effective therapists displayed more positive behaviors (e.g., warmth, alliance), fewer negative behaviors (e.g., attacking, blaming), and more selfcriticism than less effective therapists. All therapists, however, showed some negative behavior. Significant results were almost entirely relationshiporiented. Length of stay was far more often related to therapist behavior than were outcome scores. Therapists, independent observers, and patients were