A comparison of the attendance and dropout rates between time limited and time-unlimited psychotherapy.

Abstract

In order for one to benefit from psychotherapy, one must attend. However, poor attendance and high dropout rates are frequently cited in the literature, but yet few suggestions are offered for improving them. This study attempted to increase attendance and reduce dropout rates by clearly informing clients of termination dates using time-limited therapy and then examined the attendance and dropout rates of 38 subjects seeking psychological services at an east-central Kansas mental health center. The subjects were randomly assigned to 12 time limited therapy sessions or time-unlimited therapy (openended therapy). Results indicated no significant differences in attendance for either time-limited or time unlimited therapy. A chi square also found no differences in dropout rates between the two groups. A post hoc regression analysis revealed fee and income combined accounted for 34% of the variance in attendance. Fee alone also was significant. As fee and income increased, attendance also increased.