Evaluation of collaborative cognitive-behavioural case formulations in a clinical psychology program: a client perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Cognitive behavioural case formulations (CBCFs) have been widely used in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). However, sparse research has examined how clients experience the shared formulation process. The current study aimed explored the role of CBCFs in an outpatient student-staffed community clinic. Method A 30 adult participants aged 18 - 67 (M = 37.50, SD = 11.20), with a range of mental health concerns, completed a CBCF session as a part of routine therapy, with their treating provisional psychologist. Immediately following the session, participants completed a questionnaire that included five items, 5-point Likert scale questionnaire measuring clients’ experience of the collaborative CBCF, and two open questions captured further information. Results High scores across all questions on the Likert scale, and a total of nine themes was identified from the qualitative data. Six themes related to a broadly positive emotional response, two themes had a broadly negative emotional response, and one theme was a neutral emotional response. Conclusions The visual process of CBCF is a positive experience for clients that may help them to better understand their difficulties, elicit positive emotions, and feel understood by their treating therapist. Limitations of the current study and recommendations for future research are discussed.