Implementing routine outcome monitoring in a psychodynamic training clinic: it’s complicated

Abstract

ABSTRACT The use of routine outcome monitoring (ROM) has been shown to improve treatment outcomes, reduce symptom deterioration and treatment dropout, and is especially relevant for training clinics. However, the use of ROM in a psychodynamic training clinic has remained relatively unexplored. We aimed to instigate an open dialogue about the use and usefulness of ROM within the context of contemporary psychodynamic clinical practice. As a graduate trainee and professor in a psychodynamic training program, we reflect on the seemingly irreconcilable differences between psychoanalytic thinking and ROM, the anxiety around being evaluated as a trainee, whom ROM is for, the pragmatic challenges when trying new tools and technology (especially when not chosen yourself), and the limitations of standardized self-report measures, such as the OQ. Overall, these complexities suggest that although ROM is likely worthwhile for patients, therapists, supervisors, and researchers, it will only come to its fruition if we integrate it into the tri-legged stool of evidence-based practice . We will need to engage in a genuine discussion about the use of ROM and consider the possibility that ROM might even improve our psychodynamic practices. Integrating ROM into psychodynamic didactic courses and supervision in graduate training could be a good starting point.