Clinicians’ Experiences in using an Empirically Support Treatment (EST) for Panic Disorder: Results of a Survey

American Psychological Association (APA) Division 12 Committee on Building a Two-Way Bridge Between Research and Practice

             As part of its effort to build a two-way bridge between research and practice, the Society of Clinical Psychology recently surveyed therapists about the variables they found to limit the effectiveness of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) in clinical practice for treating panic disorder—the only current EST. The goal of this initiative was to close the gap between research and practice by providing clinicians with a voice in the research process. In essence, it could allow them to make use of their clinical experience–the context of discovery--to highlight researchable questions and hypotheses that could help improve the effectiveness of our interventions. In having a two-way, rather than a one-way bridge, it is also hoped that it will also encourage practitioners to make use of research findings to guide their clinical work. With growing demands for accountability, it is important for both researcher and therapist to have a collaborative voice in deciding which treatments work.

The Society of Clinical Psychology is firmly committed to identifying and promulgating treatments that work. Indeed, the Society was among the first organizations in mental health to compile a list of empirically supported treatments on the basis of supportive results from randomized clinical trials (RCTs). As scientific knowledge and research designs mature, and as researcher-practitioner collaborations increase, we have reached a point where it is desirable and feasible to extend the research methods used and the constructs investigated. A multiplicity of sophisticated research strategies, including but not limited to RCTs, now allows us to improve the effectiveness of psychological treatments.

1. research on psychotherapy and the designation of empirically supported therapies consider  treatment methods as well as the participants, their relationship, and contextual factors;
2. a wide variety of research methods are used as appropriate to the questions asked;  and
3. research increases our understanding both of the cross-cutting/common and unique principles on which effective treatments rest and enhance the optimal use of participants, interactional, cultural, and technical factors in effecting change.   

A new brochure has been developed to help clinicians reduce violence in the practice of psychology through the work of the Division 12 Section VII/APA Advisory Committee on Colleague Assistance and the APA Practice Directorate. From the brochure (pdf download):

Few challenges facing psychology practitioners are more distressing than the possibility of patient violence toward the clinician. According to national surveys, roughly 1/3 of practicing psychologists have concerns about possible patient violence; and, 15% - 25% are at risk of being assaulted by a patient at some point in their careers. Most instances of patient assault have not resulted in serious harm or injury; however, the emotional distress on the clinician can be substantial, and it is usually far more disturbing than any physical injury.

Education and training in the evaluation and management of potentially violent patients is often minimal. Because of the complexity of such patients and the high intensity of the context in which they can present, it is helpful to be prepared with knowledge and some plans for dealing with this situation.

Please download a copy today. The .pdf file is formatted for double-sided printing. You may download a copy for onscreen viewing, as well.

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