Module 54: Evaluating Psychotherapies

Question 1

Is psychotherapy effective?

Answer 1

▪ Clients’ and therapists’ positive testimonials cannot prove that psychotherapy is actually effective.
▪ The placebo effect makes it difficult to judge whether improvement occurred because of the treatment.
▪ Research indicates that those persons who do not undergo treatment often improve, but those undergoing psychotherapy are more likely to improve more quickly and with less chance of relapse.

Question 2

Which Psychotherapies Work Best?

Answer 2

▪ Cognitive and cognitive-behavioral therapies: Anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder
▪ Behavioral conditioning therapies: Bed wetting, phobias, compulsions, marital problems, and sexual dysfunctions
▪ Psychodynamic therapy: Depression and anxiety
▪ Nondirective (client-centered) counseling: Mild to moderate depression

Question 3

The three basic benefits of all psychotherapies

Answer 3

Hope for demoralized people, a new perspective for one and the world, empathic/trusting/caring relationship (therapeutic alliance)

Question 4

Finding a Mental Health Professional

Answer 4

People seeking therapy are encouraged to ask about treatment approach, values, credentials, and fees.
An important consideration is whether the
potential client feels comfortable and able to establish a bond with the therapist.