The impact of formulation on working alliance
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the impact of psychological formulation on working alliance: a mixed methods, repeated single case investigation
IRAS ID
221260
Contact name
Hannah Daniels
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Lincoln
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 15 days
Research summary
Exploring the impact of psychological formulation on working alliance: a mixed methods, repeated single case investigation.
The purpose of this study is to contribute to the literature and evidence for the use of psychological formulation, specifically whether it impacts on working alliance. Formulation is a skill used by clinical psychologists, which draws on psychological theory to help make sense of an individual's difficulties. Formulation is a core competency of clinical psychology practice and training. There is limited evidence to suggest it improves clinical outcomes or has explored client's experiences of receiving a formulation
The study aims to answer two research questions:
1. Does psychological formulation impact working alliance?
2. What is the relationship between psychological formulation, working alliance and psychosocial outcomes?The study will use a mixed methods, repeated single case design. The study will involve direct replication of the study design with each participant.
The study will be structured in two stages:
Firstly, treatment as usual (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which includes formulation) will be conducted with adult patients, who present with a primary diagnosis of depression. Participants will be recruited from the waiting list at a Step 4 Psychology Service in Lincoln (Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust). Treatment will be for 8 weeks, consisting of weekly, one hour sessions. The impact of formulation will be measured using participant and therapist questionnaires, specifically measuring symptoms of depression, working alliance and general wellbeing. Measures will be taken pre and post therapy and also at the end of each session. Sessions will also be audio recorded to count the frequency of formulations used during each session.
Secondly, participants will be interviewed to explore their experiences of receiving a formulation during their treatment. Interviews will be audio recorded and transcribed for data analysis.This study is being organised and funded by the University of Lincoln.
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/EM/0070
Date of REC Opinion
7 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion