Many variables contribute to the effectiveness of therapy: the match of diagnosis to treatment, the therapist, the client, and the therapeutic alliance. Obviously, a correct diagnosis is vital to effective therapy. Therapists, being human, also differ widely. So, two therapists using the same therapy may use it differently. Clients, too, vary widely. Clients who want to change will obviously be more likely to. Another rule of thumb in therapy that emphasizes the role of the client is that clients who ask for help are more successful in therapy than clients who are "helped" without their asking for help. Finally, the notion of a "therapeutic alliance" or a combined effort by the therapist and the client is very important to successful therapeutic outcomes.
- The Effectiveness of Psychotherapy--article, interm., long, links, graphics
- Full text of Martin Seligman's American Psychologist (1995) article on efficacy vs. effectiveness studies of psychotherapy, written in response to a Consumer Reports article on the efficacy of psychotherapy. http://www.cmhc.com/articles/seligm.htm