The role of working alliance in ACT teams: the building blocks retrieved
Abstract Background. In this study, we aimed to retrieve and operationalize the building blocks of the working alliance in multidisciplinary teams with shared caseloads, for use in daily practice and research to support (Flexible) Assertive Community Treatment teams.Methods. After reviewing literature, concept mapping with professionals and clients was used to define working alliance in (F)ACT. The resulting concept maps formed the basis for the instrument. The instrument was pilot tested with professionals and clients by means of cognitive interviews with a think-aloud procedure.Results. The study led to development of a twenty-five item instrument to assess Working Alliance in Multidisciplinary teams (WAM), comprised of three subscales: bond, task/goal and team, with a version for clients and professionals.Conclusions. The WAM was developed to determine the quality of the working alliance in ACT teams. Future research will focus on testing its psychometric properties and predictive value.