Differences in the therapeutic functioning of paraprofessionals with varying lengths of experience

Measured differences in the ability of paraprofessionals to discriminate and communicate facilitative conditions in psychotherapy as a function of length of experience. Hypothesis tested were that discrimination and communication abilities would be greater in Ss with longer experience and that these abilities would be correlated positively within individuals. Thirty-six mental health workers were categorized into three levels of experience and initial competency. Ss were administered the Carkhuff Discrimination Rating Scale; the level of conditions communicated to patients was assessed through replies to taped patient interviewers. Results failed to support the hypothesized relationships between functioning and experience. However, several interactions were found. Initially more competent Ss tended to improve over time and less competent Ss declined. A positive correlation between abilities within individuals was found. Results were compared with studies that measured the functioning of professional psychology trainees over time, are relevant to issues of therapist selection, and support the use of experiential training programs.