First-session therapeutic relationship and outcome in high risk adolescents intensive group psychotherapeutic programme

Hauber, K.; Boon, A. (2022)

Article / Letter to editor

Background: An important determinant of therapy outcome is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. This study evaluated the association between the client's assessment of first-session therapeutic relationship (FSTR) and outcome in an intensive treatment for adolescents with personality disorders. Method: Patients (N = 92) were measured weekly during intensive group treatment. The therapeutic relationship was measured with the Child version of the Session Rating Scale (C-SRS) that was completed after each group therapy session by the patient. Outcome was measured with the Child version of the Outcome Rating Scale (C-ORS). Reliable change index (RCI) was calculated for the both instruments to determine significant changes in therapeutic relationship and outcome. Results: A good FRST gave twice as much chance of a significantly better outcome. Especially for those with moderate FSTR, establishing and maintaining a good working relationship during treatment could increase the chances of a good outcome considerably. In contrast, adolescents with low FSTR had little chance of positive outcome regardless of any improvement in the therapeutic relationship. Conclusion: Adolescents assessment of FRST is indicative of the chance of a good outcome.

• therapeutic alliance
• therapeutic alliance in the initial phase
• treatment outcome
• psychotherapy
• group therapy
• adolescents'
• personality disorder
• MBT

• All authors: Hauber, K.; Boon, A.
• Date: 2022-06-16
• Journal: Frontiers in Psychology
• Volume: 13
• DOI: doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.916888