Research in the Training Clinic: Jennifer Callahan
University of North Texas

Swift, J.K., & Callahan, J.L. (in press). A delay discounting measure of great expectations and the effectiveness of psychotherapy client decision making. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice

Jennifer Callahan of the University of North Texas presented a study that examined the role and effectiveness of client expectations in regard to staying in therapy. 77.5% of clients in a psychology training clinic terminated prematurely, compared to 40-60% in standard outpatient settings. The literature indicates that 73% of clients expect to attend fewer than 10 sessions, although the average length in treatment in the training clinic was 14.81 sessions. In contrast, the mean length of treatment in standard outpatient settings was 9.96 sessions. Since unmet expectations are known to be linked to premature termination, Callahan looked at whether expectations could be altered, thereby reducing premature termination.

Slides of the power point presentation will be posted when the new ADPTC website is completed. You can also contact the author for a reprint of the article.

Jennifer L. Callahan PhD ABPP
Department of Psychology
University of North Texas
PO Box 311280 Denton TX 76203-1280
Email: jennifercallahan@unt.edu