What percentage of therapeutic change is attributed to extra-therapeutic factors?

The assertion that 40% of therapeutic change is attributed to extra-therapeutic factors is based on research and theories surrounding psychotherapy and counseling outcomes. Extra-therapeutic factors refer to those elements outside of the actual therapeutic intervention that can contribute significantly to a client’s progress and overall success in therapy. These factors include clients' personal strengths, social supports, environments, and life circumstances that facilitate change.

Recognizing the substantial role of these factors emphasizes that effective therapy is not solely a product of the specific techniques used by the clinician but also significantly influenced by the context in which a person is seeking help. This helps professionals understand that fostering a supportive environment and leveraging personal strengths can enhance the therapy's effectiveness. In the field of counseling and psychotherapy, acknowledging the impact of these external factors aids practitioners in developing comprehensive approaches that incorporate the client's unique situation.