Method of Levels: initial steps in assessing adherence and the development of a qualitative framework for mapping clients’ control hierarchies

Abstract. Method of Levels (MOL) is a form of cognitive therapy based on PerceptualControl Theory (PCT). This paper presents the initial steps towards four methods ofestablishing the validity of MOL. First, the session was rated by two independentexperts for its adherence to MOL using a newly developed 6-item scale based on theCognitive Therapy Rating Scale. Second, each therapist utterance within a session ofMOL was coded and categorized in terms of the therapist???s goal to test for adherenceto the two specified goals of MOL. Third, a macroanalysis of a MOL session utilizinginterpretative phenomenological analysis hypothesized the control hierarchies involvedin a client???s presenting problem and their zones of conflict. Fourth, a microanalysis of abrief interchange between the therapist and client explored its adherence to PCT. Thesemethods of establishing validity are introduced and explored for later use in larger scalestudies. The limitations of the present study and suggestions for future research arediscussed.