Developing a Protocol Design for an Outcome Study of Psychoanalysis

Abstract

In this article, we describe the development of the Comparative Outcomes in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis Study (COPPS). COPPS is planned to be a multisite outcome and process study of psychoanalysis that incorporates methodology that is now standard for clinical trials and particularly psychotherapy studies. We begin with an overview of the process of protocol development and key methodological issues. Next, we describe a completed pilot study that establishes the feasibility of randomizing patients to analysis. We then discuss what is needed to execute the study and the potential impact on and value for the field.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Eve Caligor

Eve Caligor, M.D., is Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons; and Director, Psychotherapy Division and Training and Supervising Analyst at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.

Steven P. Roose

Steven P. Roose, M.D., is Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University; Director, Neuropsychiatry Research Clinics at New York State Psychiatric Institute; and on the Faculty at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.

Mark J. Hilsenroth

Mark J. Hilsenroth, Ph.D., is Professor of Psychology at The Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University.

Bret R. Rutherford

Bret R. Rutherford, M.D., is Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York State Psychiatric Institute.