Perceptions of the Use of an Outcome Monitoring Tool in a Clinical Psychology Training Centre: Lessons Learned for Performance Measurement

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of the Outcome Questionnaire (OQ) following its implementation in a university-based psychological services training centre. Participants were doctoral-level student clinicians (N=49), clinical supervisors (N=17), and clients (N=24). Data was collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups. Findings indicated the majority of clinicians used the OQ to monitor outcomes and the majority of stakeholders perceived it as useful. However, the extent to which the information provided by the OQ was being used was variable. Lessons learned for implementation of performance measurement systems within mental health services are discussed.