Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science

Evidence for Rapid Decrease in Self-Reported Psychological Distress During Initial Phase of Psychotherapy
Scott T. Meier

Abstract
While research findings have provided support for sequential stage models of counseling and psychotherapy, more study is needed regarding change within specific phases and stages. This study employed a large, archival outpatient sample (n = 772 at Session 1) at a college counseling center to conduct a series of exploratory analyses examining the level and amount of change in 20 self-reported psychological symptoms and functioning variables during early sessions of psychotherapy. Findings replicate previous research showing rapid change during early sessions, but with psychological distress emerging as a key construct. Nearly 90% of clients entered therapy reporting moderate to high distress, and only distress scores evidenced a initial, large decrease. Clients who reported high distress also showed the largest overall improvement during early sessions. Males appeared to under-report initial distress, raising questions about the validity of self-reported distress with men. Interpretation of these results provide an expanded description of the initial, remoralization stage of psychotherapy with implications for research and clinical practice.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpbs.v3n1a4