Factors associated with drop-out from a couples therapy clinic

Abstract

Demographic information and pre-treatment self-rated measures of mood (depression and anxiety), marital state and sexual satisfaction for 22 couples receiving conjoint couples therapy were analysed to determine their association with drop-out from therapy. Couples from non-white (UK/Irish) origins showed a significantly higher rate of attrition from therapy. No other factor was found to be associated with higher rates of drop-out. This finding is discussed with respect to the relevant literature and actions are suggested to rectify the apparent failure of couples therapists to provide a satisfactory service to clients from ethnic minority groups.