An investigation of psychoeducational interventions about therapy

Abstract

This study assessed the effects of psychoeducational interventions on undergraduates’ expectations and fears about psychotherapy. Block randomization was used to determine intervention assignment: a multimedia program, information-only presentation, or a no-intervention control group. Pre- and postintervention scores from the Expectations About Counseling–Brief Form (EAC-B) and Thoughts About Psychotherapy Survey (TAPS) were assessed for changes in expectations and fears. Results showed that the multimedia and information-only interventions significantly reduced fears about therapy, although the reduction in fears by the multimedia program was more significant compared with the information-only intervention. The multimedia program also significantly and positively influenced 3 EAC-B subscales, Client Characteristics, Client Attitudes and Behaviors, and Counseling Process and Outcome, compared with the other 2 conditions. Clinical implications of using educational interventions are discussed.

An earlier version of these results was presented as part of a panel, “The Role of Client Expectations in Therapy,” presented at the conference of the Society for Psychotherapy Research, North American Chapter, Springdale, UT, November 2004. This study is based on a master's thesis completed by Jennifer M. Fende. The authors thank Laurie Fox for her help with reviewing an earlier version of this article and Bruce Carlson for statistical assistance.