Client-therapist value similarity and psychotherapy outcome: A microscopic analysis

Forty-five nonpsychotic psychiatric outpatients were randomly assigned to 22 therapists. Pre-assignment assessment of similarity in 36 value dimensions were investigated as they influenced symptomatic and global changes in the therapy process. The results indicate that a complex pattern of similarity and differences in specific values promote maximal improvement. Moreover, specific improvement measures are influenced differently by various patient-therapist value patterns. Generally, therapist ratings of outcome were enhanced by pretreatment dissimilarities in value placed upon social ascendance and achievement and similar value emphasis being placed upon humanistic and philosophical concerns. Patient ratings of outcome were also enhanced if patient and therapist shared philosophical and humanistic concerns but were further facilitated if values relating to social attachment and independence were ranked differently for patient and therapist.