A systematic comparison of two cases in mann’s time-limited psychotherapy

In this study we combined the events approach and Strupp’s design in order to conduct a systematic comparison of two cases in Mann’s Time-Limited Psychotherapy (TLP). Two patients treated by the same therapist, yet resulting in divergent outcomes, were drawn from the Jerusalem Time-Limited Psychotherapy Project. A change event in TLP that begins with a “central issue” marker was identified and the client performances and therapist operations leading to successful event-outcome were described. Using the event as the unit of analysis, in-therapy event processes were rated on the Vanderbilt Psychotherapy Process Scale (VPPS). A comparison of the VPPS ratings across the three phases of treatment (initial, middle, and termination) showed a rise in patient participation in the successful case, and a decline in patient exploration in the unsuccessful case. This context-specific approach seems to yield clinically relevant findings for the practice and training of TLP therapists.