What question did this study set out to answer?

To evaluate the impact of a training program aimed at improving therapists' interpersonal skills.

May 6, 2026Open Access

Improving interpersonal skills in therapists: A waitlist-controlled trial of facilitative interpersonal and relational skills training

Key Points

To evaluate the impact of a training program aimed at improving therapists' interpersonal skills.
Conducted a waitlist-controlled trial with experienced therapists
Participants attended a two-day workshop and subsequent booster sessions
Assessed performance-based interpersonal skills at three time points using mixed-effects models.
Modest improvements in facilitative interpersonal skills were noted post-training.
Largest gains were seen in alliance-related skills, like alliance bond capacity.
No significant enhancements in therapist self-efficacy or self-reported skills were observed.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated a brief deliberate practice-based training program ('Facilitative Interpersonal and Relational Skills Training') aimed at enhancing therapists' facilitative interpersonal skills (FIS) in a sample of experienced clinicians. METHODS: = 68) sequentially received a two-day workshop followed by two booster sessions over two months. They completed performance-based FIS assessments at three time points, along with self-reported FIS and therapist self-efficacy. Piecewise mixed-effects models tested pre-post change in each group and effects across the eight specific FIS. RESULTS: = .31). Skill-specific analyzes indicated the largest gains in alliance-related skills, namely alliance bond capacity and rupture-repair responsiveness. No significant effects were found for self-reported FIS or therapist self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: Modest improvements emerged in FIS after the training, especially alliance-focused capacities. Effects were smaller than in prior trainee-trials on FIS training, likely reflecting higher baseline skill levels and limited power. Larger studies are needed to evaluate clinical impact.

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