Psychotherapy in the age of accountability

By Lynn D Johnson, Norton

Abstract

I picked up this book with reluctance. It felt like a 'should read',  rather than a book that would be enjoyable or constructive, or both. For some time I have been aware of the direction ACC, and other funding agencies, are moving with regard to funding counselling and psychotherapy. Less of it, more controlled by them, and accountability from us. This move takes place in a general social climate that is putting an increasing value on efficiency, outcomes, economic units, accountability and cost effectiveness. To put it simply, funders want to cut costs and be reassured that they are funding a service that can be seen to work in a measurable way.