The Use of Outcome Measures by Psychologists in Clinical Practice.

TLDR

The survey examined psychologists’ use of outcome measures in clinical practice. The study employed a questionnaire of practicing psychologists to assess how they employ outcome measures. Among respondents, 37% used some form of outcome assessment; users tended to be younger, CBT‑oriented, work more hours, serve children and adolescents, and work in institutional settings, while nonusers cited cost, time, and philosophical barriers; both groups desired information on client progress, strengths, weaknesses, and treatment adjustments.

Abstract

This survey investigated psychologists' use of outcome measures in clinical practice. Of the respondents, 37% indicated that they used some form of outcome assessment in practice. A wide variety of measures were used thatwere rated by the client or clinician. Clinicians who assess outcome in practice are more likely to be younger, have a cognitive-behavioral orientation, conduct more hours of therapy per week, provide services for children and adolescents, and work in institutional settings. Clinicians who do not use outcome measures endorse practical (e.g., cost, time) and philosophical (e.g., relevance) barriers to their use. Both users and nonusers of outcome measures were interested in similar types of information, including client progress since entering treatment, current strengths and weaknesses, and determining if there is a need to alter treatment. Implications for practicing clinicians are discussed.