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Measurement and psychotherapy: Evidence-based practice and practice-based evidence

Abstract:

Background: Measurement is the foundation of evidence-based practice. Advances in measurement procedures should extend to psychotherapy practice. Aims: To review the developments in measurement relevant to psychotherapy. Method: Domains reviewed are: (a) interventions; (b) case formulation; (c) treatment integrity; (d) performance (including adherence, competence and skilfulness); (e) treatment definitions; (f) therapeutic alliance; and (g) routine outcome measurement. Results: Modern methods of measurement can support 'evidence-based practice' for psychological treatments. They also support 'practice-based evidence', a complementary paradigm to improve clinical effectiveness in routine practice via the infrastructure of Practice Research Networks (PRNs). Conclusions: Advances in measurement derived from psychotherapy research support a model of professional self-management (practice-based evidence) which is widely applicable in psychiatry and medicine. Declaration of interest. The Mental Health Foundation, the Counselling in Primary Care Trust, and the Society for Psychotherapy Research (UK) (Northern Group) have supported the work of the CORE System Group.