Clinician use of standardized assessments following a common elements psychotherapy training and consultation program

Adm Policy Ment Health. 2015 Jan;42(1):47-60. doi: 10.1007/s10488-014-0543-7.

Abstract

Despite increasing emphasis on the implementation of evidence-based treatments in community service settings, little attention has been paid to supporting the use of evidence-based assessment (EBA) methods and processes, a parallel component of evidence-based practice. Standardized assessment (SA) tools represent a key aspect of EBA and are central to data-driven clinical decision making. The current study evaluated the impact of a statewide training and consultation program in a common elements approach to psychotherapy. Practitioner attitudes toward, skill applying, and use of SA tools across four time points (pre-training, post-training, post-consultation, and follow-up) were assessed. Results indicated early increases in positive SA attitudes, with more gradual increases in self-reported SA skill and use. Implications for supporting the sustained use of SA tools are discussed, including the use of measurement feedback systems, reminders, and SA-supportive supervision practices.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Evidence-Based Practice / organization & administration*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inservice Training / organization & administration*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Psychotherapy / standards*