List of Tables and Figures

Abstract

Research has consistently shown the therapeutic alliance to be one of the most robust predictors of outcome in individual psychotherapy. Safran and Muran (2000) propose a treatment model with an intensive focus on the therapeutic relationship, interpersonal process, and training in how to resolve moments of therapeutic impasse and alliance ruptures called Alliance Focused Training (AFT). The present study uses a simplified version of the SASB rating system to measure change in patient and therapist interpersonal process as a result of this training. Based on a power analysis, 132 therapy sessions (2 early, 2 midphase, 2 late) from 22 different dyads in a multiple baseline study design were selected. Therapy cases were time limited (30 session) CBT on cluster C personality disordered patients. AFT was implemented to augment CBT supervision at either session 8, or session 16 in multiple baseline design to control for therapist maturation and time effects. Change in interpersonal process as a result of AFT was assessed using Generalized Estimating Equations. Results indicate significant change in patient and therapist interpersonal process as a result of AFT, and are discussed.