Using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 as Feedback Instruments in Brief Psychotherapy

Using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7) as Feedback Instruments in Brief Psychotherapy

This study will assess the effects of client feedback, using the Patient Health Questionnaire - 9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale, on depression and anxiety in individuals undergoing brief psychotherapy. Client feedback allows therapists to monitor treatment progress in real time. Identifying an easily accessible treatment intervention, which utilizes commonly used scales, that potentially enhances the effect of brief psychotherapy and improves treatment outcomes is a valuable endeavor with clear implications for therapy practices. It is hypothesized that clients who complete these scales each session will show greater symptom improvement than clients who do not complete the scales.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or Adjustment Disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Require a higher level of care than brief psychotherapy, or have been diagnosed with an intellectual disability, personality disorder, substance use disorder, or major medical illness