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Updated: Jun 1, 2026
13:57
Assessing the Multiple Dimensions of Engagement to Characterize Learning: A Neurophysiological Perspective
Published on: July 1, 2015
Using the e-SOFTA for video training and research on alliance-related behavior
Valentín Escudero1, Myrna L Friedlander, Laurie Heatherington
1Department of Psychology, University of La Coruña, La Coruña, Spain. valentin.escudero@udc.es
Psychotherapy (Chicago, Ill.)
|June 7, 2011
Summary
This study introduces e-SOFTA, a free computer program for training and researching the therapeutic working alliance. It enhances the System for Observing Family Therapy Alliances (SOFTA) by allowing detailed behavioral analysis and comparison of session ratings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Therapeutic Alliance Research
- Clinical Supervision Technology
Background:
- The working alliance is crucial for therapeutic progress in individual and family therapy.
- Existing methods for assessing the working alliance include observational tools and self-report measures.
- The System for Observing Family Therapy Alliances (SOFTA) provides a framework with four key dimensions: Engagement, Emotional Connection, Safety, and Shared Purpose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe e-SOFTA, a novel technology for training, supervision, and research on the therapeutic working alliance.
- To present a computer program that operationalizes the SOFTA framework for detailed alliance assessment.
- To offer practical applications of e-SOFTA in clinical training and research settings.
Main Methods:
- Development of e-SOFTA, a free, downloadable PC program based on the SOFTA observational rating tools (SOFTA-o).
- e-SOFTA allows users to rate client and therapist behaviors related to the four SOFTA dimensions.
- The program provides time-stamped frequencies of behaviors, qualitative comments, and comparative rating features.
Main Results:
- e-SOFTA enables objective, detailed analysis of alliance-related behaviors during therapy sessions.
- The technology facilitates comparison of ratings between different users (e.g., trainees, supervisors).
- e-SOFTA supports the development of observational and executive skills in graduate students through a dedicated training module.
Conclusions:
- e-SOFTA offers a valuable technological tool for advancing research and training in therapeutic working alliance.
- The program's features support the systematic observation and analysis of alliance dynamics.
- e-SOFTA has practical implications for improving clinical supervision and therapist training programs.
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