Rating Scales in Psychotherapy Practice

Therapists can gain invaluable information by administering rating scales to clients throughout the therapy process. Indeed, research has demonstrated therapists who utilize client feedback can improve their clients’ outcomes. We provide an overview of the research of using rating scales in therapy. Next, we describe some practical considerations in the selection of rating scales; specifically, we highlight the benefits and feasibility of using global outcome and working alliance scales. Finally, we provide examples of brief, psychometrically sound, rating scales that can be integrated into practice.