Meta-analysis for single-case consultation outcomes: Applications to research and practice

The application of meta-analysis holds much appeal for single-case consultation outcome research. We review a meta-analytic method for using within-study treatment effect sizes in reporting consultation outcomes. The strengths and limitations of traditional group design meta-analysis are examined. Various methods for analyzing single-case outcomes are discussed briefly, followed by an examination of the use of meta-analysis in single-case reviews across independent studies. Within-study meta-analytic results are presented that were derived from treatments implemented in consultations in natural settings. To conclude the article, an illustration is offered of a single-case data analysis display that incorporates meta-analytic results along with other indices of treatment outcome. Recommendations are provided for using meta-analytic methods to evaluate outcomes of single-case consultation treatment.