about us
PCOMS is our passion!
PCOMS emerged from everyday practice and an aspiration not only to improve outcomes but also to privilege the client in the therapy process.
thirty years of putting the client’s voice first
An evidence-based pathway to collaboration and engagement
The Partners for Change Outcome Management System (PCOMS) was developed by Dr. Barry Duncan over twenty-five years ago, first articulated in the PCOMS Manual (Duncan & Sparks, 2002), now in its fourth edition. Long before the measures were psychometrically validated and the increased effectiveness was demonstrated in randomized clinical trials, there was a desire to privilege clients and include them in all decisions that affect their care.
“Psychotherapy is not an uninhabited terrain of technical procedures, nor the predictable path of diagnosis, prescription, and cure. It cannot be described without the client and therapist, co-adventurers in a journey across uncharted territory. Common factors provide landmarks for this interpersonal and idiosyncratic trip, and specific models provide well-traveled paths to consider, but feedback provides the compass, showing the way to the desired destination.”
Duncan, 2014
The people behind PCOMS.
To reach either of us, use the contact form.
Barry L. Duncan, Psy.D.
Dr. Duncan is a psychologist, trainer, and researcher with over 17,000 hours of clinical experience. He is the developer of the evidence based practice, the Partners for Change Outcome Management System (PCOMS), and leader of the team responsible for PCOMS scientific credibility and evidence based status. PCOMS is implemented in all 50 states and in 20 countries around the world. Barry has over 150 publications, including 18 books addressing client feedback, consumer rights, and the power of relationship in any change endeavor. Because of his self-help books (the latest is What’s Right With You), he has appeared on Oprah, The View, and several other national TV programs.
Barry’s trainings speak directly to both front line clinicians and administrators. He talks about what it means to do this work and how each of us can re-remember and achieve our original aspirations to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Barry is the former CEO of Better Outcomes Now and he gives his full endorsement and support to Dr. Jeff Reese, the new CEO.
Barbara L. Hernandez, MS, LMHC
Ms. Hernandez is the former Chief Operating Officer of the Center for Family Services, a public behavioral health organization in West Palm Beach, Florida. Ms. Hernandez oversaw the operations of the clinical programs and professional services provided to clients, their families, and the community.
She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Trainer of the Partners for Change Outcome Management System (PCOMS), and a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, children and families in community mental health settings, substance abuse organizations, and in private practice. She has extensive experience in supervision, directing programs, training, consultation, administration, and providing direct care.
Ms. Hernandez is a steadfast voice for client privilege, an advocate of client directed and outcome driven work and a leader of accountability via PCOMS. She provides PCOMS training in Spanish. Barbara is the former Vice President of Better Outcomes Now and fully endorses both BON and the new leadership.
See the difference
For more information about licensing the measures and algorithms