Premature dropout from Psychotherapy and Helping Skills: An empirical study

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the relationship between the self-perception oftherapeutic skills and the premature termination of treatments.Additionally, to assess whether there are differences among therapistsregarding dropout rates and the stage of treatment where dropout is mostcommon. Methodology: a longitudinal study with an initial clinical sampleof N = 188 patients. Therapists were administered the Counselor ActivitySelf-Efficacy Scales (CASES). A univariate descriptive analysis wasconducted on the characteristics of the therapists and, separately, thepatients. Generalized estimating equations with a binomial family, logisticlink, and exchangeable correlation matrix were used to predict dropoutrates. Results: insight skills increased the likelihood of continuingpsychotherapy by 8%, exploration by 10%, and action by 18%. There wereno significant differences between therapists and patients who droppedout during the initial sessions. Conclusion: the self-perception oftherapeutic skills such as insight, exploration, and action increases theprobability of continuity in psychotherapy, although no significantdifferences were observed in early dropout rates between therapists andpatients.