Therapy matchmaking: Patient-therapist match in personality traits and attachment style

Objective: This study examined the relationships between patient–therapist similarity and therapy outcome. We aimed to explore whether patient–therapist match in personality and attachment styles leads to a better therapy outcome. Method: We collected data from 77 patient–therapist dyads in short-term dynamic therapy. Patients’ and therapists’ personality traits (Big-5 Inventory) and attachment styles (ECR) were assessed prior to beginning therapy. Outcome was measured on the OQ-45. Results: When patients and therapists scored either high or low on neuroticism and conscientiousness we found a decrease in symptoms from beginning to end of therapy. When patients’ and therapists’ combined scores were either high or low on attachment anxiety, we found an increase in symptoms. Conclusion: Match or mismatch on personality and attachment style in therapy dyads contributes to therapy outcome.