Drug counselors' perceptions of clients: demographic, personality and psychopathology correlates

Counselors' interpersonal perceptions of their clients in outpatient drug treatment were studied. Factor analysis produced three general factors, interpreted as perceptions of manageability, treatment readiness, and suitability for group treatment. Counselor perception of client interpersonal attractiveness did not emerge as a separate factor, but appeared equally significantly related to each of the first two factors. Correlates of counselor perceptions were sought among measures of client program performance, demographic and drug use history, psychopathology, and counselor background and personality. With one exception, measures of clients' actual program performance were the best predictors of counselors' perceptions of clients. Clinical implications are discussed.