How do we know what works without effectiveness research? Developing a stronger research culture for counsellors and psychotherapists

Abstract

Great story - needs more dragons! I am aware that many counsellors and psychotherapists will not read beyond the title of this abstract as many clinicians view research as irrelevant, unnecessary, and incomprehensible. This view is unintentionally supported by the lack of specialised counselling and psychotherapy research programs in Australia. And the dragons in this particular story are called 'evidence-based practice' and 'the medical model'. This paper analyses the current research programs in Australia, compared with the disciplines of psychology and social work by examining completed theses. The author argues that a foundational knowledge of research is essential for clinicians working in this field, and that the PACFA Training Standards should include an understanding of research as a core component of the curriculum for all therapists. The benefits to be gained from a stronger research culture will be explored, along with the barriers to conducting effectiveness research. The paper will discuss ways in which PACFA is attempting to make research more exciting and accessible, and invites suggestions from the floor for strengthening the research culture for the profession.