ABSTRACT

Two feedback interventions have demonstrated gains in randomized controlled trials and are included in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices. Only one, the Partners for Change Outcome Management System (PCOMS), has achieved significant improvement in outcomes with couples. The purpose of the Partners for Change Outcome Management System boils down to this: partnering with clients to identify those who aren’t responding to clinician “business as usual” and addressing the lack of progress in a proactive way that keeps clients engaged while therapists collaboratively seek new directions. The PCOMS is not based on any model-derived assumptions and can be incorporated in any couple approach. The PCOMS works best as a way to gently guide models and techniques toward the client’s perspective, with a focus on the outcome. The PCOMS also provides a ready-made method for couple and family therapy programs to help students accelerate their development.