Prozessfeedback in der Psychotherapie

Abstract

Therapy feedback based on high-frequency process monitoring is applied by an increasing number of practitioners. The technology allows the assessment of nonlinear dynamics and discontinuous pattern transitions. The methodological question is on the data-based representation of such transitions and its precursors in the change dynamics of each single case. Practical questions concern the feasibility and usefulness of high-frequency monitoring in depressed and ruminating patients. In this case study we used the synergetic navigation system (SNS) which is an internet-based device for data collection (e. g. daily self-ratings by a process questionnaire) with implemented methods of nonlinear time series analysis and the visualization of the results. This case study illustrates different methods for the visualization of pattern transitions and its precursors in a psychotherapeutic process. It demonstrates the usefulness of therapy feedback in a case of depression with reduced activity level and rumination. Therapy feedback based on daily self-assessment combined with other therapeutic activities co-creates the emergence of an order transition and effective outcome.