Expanding the lens of evidence-based practice in psychotherapy: a common factors perspective

Psychotherapy (Chic). 2014 Dec;51(4):467-81. doi: 10.1037/a0034332. Epub 2013 Dec 30.

Abstract

In this article, we examine the science and policy implications of the common factors perspective (CF; Frank & Frank, 1993; Wampold, 2007). As the empirically supported treatment (EST) approach, grounded in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), is the received view (see Baker, McFall, & Shoham, 2008; McHugh & Barlow, 2012), we make the case for the CF perspective as an additional evidence-based approach for understanding how therapy works, but also as a basis for improving the quality of mental health services. Finally, we argue that it is time to integrate the 2 perspectives, and we challenge the field to do so.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Empirical Research
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / methods*
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Psychotherapy / methods*