Individual therapy attrition rates in a low-intensity service: a comparison of cognitive behavioural and person-centred therapies and the impact of deprivation.

BACKGROUND: This paper looks at attrition in relation to deprivation and type of therapy - CBT or person-centred counselling. METHOD: Case notes of all those referred in a 4-month period (n = 497) were assessed for those who failed to opt-in; those who opted-in but failed to attend first appointment and those who attended first appointment but subsequently dropped-out. RESULTS: Significant numbers failed to opt-in, attend first appointment or dropped out during therapy. There were no differences between CBT and PCT. Those from the most deprived areas were less likely to opt-in. CONCLUSIONS: We need to develop better approaches to attracting and maintaining contact with individuals complaining of common mental health problems.