Learning About Therapy Theories

ABSTRACT

A scale of therapist theoretical orientation, the Theoretical Evaluation Self Test (TEST), was tested as a tool for increasing content knowledge about psychotherapy theories, and as a means to stimulate reflective learning. MSW students displayed statistically significant gains in content knowledge after completing the scale and related self-scoring materials, as measured by a pre- and posttest design. Both MSW students and practitioners rated TEST as an effective educational experience. The most frequent qualitative response was that TEST increased insight and understanding of theoretical preferences. Applications of TEST as an educational tool for graduate students and practicing clinicians are discussed.

Key Words:

• Psychotherapy theory
• clinical training
• education