A multiple case study of referral of clients to therapists using an evidence-based computerized matching system

The usual method of referral of people to therapy by other therapists, by other types of professionals, and by friends, is unsystematic and unsupported by research. This project attempted to take a first preliminary step toward overcoming this problem by developing and studying a rational referral system based on psychotherapy research.; The literature on psychotherapy process and outcome research was examined for findings that are relevant to matching clients to therapists. Approximately 30 matching criteria were selected from this research evidence. These matching criteria were then developed into approximately 50 specific matching recommendations. These matching recommendations were then combined into a computer based assessment which clients and therapists answered in separate questionnaires. A computer program then generated numerical match ratings for client-therapist pairs.; This matching system was then studied in a multiple case study. Twenty-five therapists were given the therapist questionnaire, and their answers put into a database. Six clients were then given the client questionnaire, and matched to therapists using this matching system. The first three therapy sessions for each match pair were analyzed with written session assessments filled out by each client and therapist for each session, and follow-up interviews were conducted after the third session.; The data from the session assessments, questionnaires, and interviews were then analyzed with a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. The study results showed a large range of effectiveness among the different matching recommendations. The study results also indicated directions for improving the matching system to create a more effective system.; Both therapists and clients reported very positive experiences from using this matching system. Many therapists were eager to participate in the study. Three clients stated they were particularly pleased to have this system available because they wanted to see therapists and didn't know how to find appropriate therapists. All clients and therapists stated that they felt they were well matched to each other.