Examining Emotional Processing Differences Predicting 18-Month Follow-Up Outcomes in Experiential Treatments for Depression

Abstract

This study examined whether an EFT theory-based model of emotional processing (EP) would provide a good transtheoretical model for predicting good and poor long-term outcomes from experiential treatment of depression independent of therapy. Using a measure called the Classification of Affective Meaning states (CAMS), CAMS-coded emotion states were investigated for 55 clients who had provided long-term outcomes on the BDI after having participated in a previous depression trial. Archival CAMS coded emotion episodes were analyzed in two ways, using proportional differences as well as sequences of CAMS codes using THEME time sequential analyses. Generally, the EFT theory-based model of EP was validated, but more so through sequence analysis than from MWU analysis. Expressing sequences of primary adaptive emotion, needs, and maladaptive pain as well as reducing secondary emotion are all important emotional processes that were THEME validated. However, some non-validation of the EFT-EP model of change was also evident.