Implementing a stress management training: comparative trainer effectiveness

Participants who were recruited from various organizations were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 stress management training (SMT) conditions or an assessment-only control group. The groups in the 1st SMT condition were led by external clinical psychologists. The groups in the 2nd SMT condition were led by individuals who held posts within the organizations involved, referred to as paraprofessionals. Results show favorable effects of the SMT program both in the short term as well as at 6-month follow-up. Results showed no serious differences in effectiveness between trainers. It is argued that, to be effective, the SMT program does not necessarily have to be given by clinical psychologists only but may instead be given by individuals from other professional orientations.