Common Factor Analysis Paper

1050 Words3 Pages

When an individual or family takes the initiative to reach out to a counselor, they do so expecting that the counselor will have the necessary skills and ability to help them find a resolution to the issue at hand. In order to be a competent clinician, the clinician needs to have a thorough understanding of all theories in order to know the best approach to take with the unique individual or family which is sitting in front of them. Each client exhibits diverse characteristics which when put together leaves the clinician with a unique case each session. When discussing diversity, most people often think about gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, religion, and age. However, diversity goes much deeper than what can be observed. As Gehard …show more content…

Rather each theory shares common factors which are considered to be more effective in the outcomes. Common factor theories see the therapist as the most effective part of treatment regardless of which theory is …show more content…

Lambert’s common factor model claims that outcomes are attributed to four factors: 1) client factors at 40 percent, 2) the therapeutic relationship from the client’s perspective at 30 percent, 3) the therapeutic model at 15 percent, and 4) client’s level of hope and the placebo effect at 15 percent (Gehard, 2016 p. 18). In contrast to Lambert’s model, Wampold conducted a meta-analysis and compared theory to theory for effectiveness. He found that the therapeutic model only contributed 8 percent to the outcome. While general factors such as the therapeutic alliance, expectancy, and hope contributed 70 percent to the overall outcome. The remaining 22 percent was attributed to unknown factors. Even with the variance in percentages, both studies highlight the importance that client factors and the therapeutic relationship provide to the overall outcome of therapy. Regardless, theoretical knowledge is important, as it provides the therapist with the tools to intervene at the right time in the right way to each client’s issues. Evidence-based treatments provide therapists with a guide to meet their client’s individual needs, assess their progress, and adjust interventions as needed. Evidence-based treatments assist in expediting the process while increasing the effectiveness at the same time. 3. Review the phases of the treatment plan and discuss what

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