Networks for treatment selection in psychotherapy: providing a manual for process-based perceived causal networks

Abstract

Idiographic networks offer a transdiagnostic approach to case conceptualization and may aid in selecting the treatment focus. We provide a practical manual for constructing idiographic paper-pencil networks. These networks focus on a single main problem, delineate the maladaptive processes that perpetuate it, and thereby inform treatment recommendations. We tested the feasibility and clinical utility of the network construction. Eight therapists applied a manual to construct idiographic paper-pencil networks with twelve patients. Both therapists and patients assessed the feasibility of the manual, the clarity of the network visualization, and the perceived clinical utility of the networks. Additionally, they evaluated changes in common therapeutic factors due to network construction. Therapists and patients rated the manual as highly feasible, viewed the network visualizations favorably, and assessed the clinical utility of the networks positively. Both therapists and patients reported improvements in treatment expectations, therapeutic alliance, and therapy motivation due to network construction. This study provides a manual for developing idiographic process-based networks during the initial psychotherapy session. Both therapists and patients evaluated the manual and the resulting networks positively, suggesting their potential to enhance case conceptualization and treatment selections in psychotherapy.