The Relationship Between Working Alliance and Therapeutic Outcomes for Individuals with Mild Mental Retardation

Abstract

Few studies have addressed the efficacy of counseling and psychotherapy for individuals with mild mental retardation, and no research has investigated the working alliance and psychotherapy outcomes for individuals with mental retardation. This study used existing survey data to examine the relationship between the level of working alliance and rehabilitation counseling outcomes for individuals with mild mental retardation. Results indicated a positive relationship between levels of working alliance and positive rehabilitation outcomes for people with mild mental retardation. This article examines effect sizes and discusses implications for rehabilitation counselors working with individuals with mild mental retardation.