What matters in the long run: predicting longevity based on initial client factors
Institution: | University of Georgia |
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Department: | |
Year: | 2015 |
Keywords: | Retention |
Posted: | 02/05/2017 |
Record ID: | 2077609 |
Full text PDF: | http://purl.galileo.usg.edu/uga_etd/bryant_emily_s_201508_phd |
Research has consistently demonstrated that a significant number of clients who initiate psychotherapy services terminate prematurely: as many as 40-60% of clients terminate therapy before it is recommended by their mental health professional. Research on attrition and retention has yielded equivocal results: findings are inconsistent in regard to factors that predict attrition/retention. The purpose of this study was to explore potential demographic and psychological factors that contribute to the longevity/utilization of services within a Counseling Psychology department’s community and training mental health facility. Data were collected via chart review of terminated psychotherapy clients. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22. Hierarchical multiple regression indicated that a model containing overall readiness for change, level of education, and sexual orientation significantly predicted longevity of psychotherapy treatment. Clinical and training implications, future directions, and limitations are discussed. Advisors/Committee Members: Alan E. Stewart.