Evidence-Based Practice and Psychodynamic Therapies
The APA defines evidence-based practice in psychology as “…the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture, and preferences” (Kazdin, 2008, p. 147). In other words, one size does not fit all, and the selection and application of any psychotherapeutic intervention requires a careful consideration of the unique needs and context of the client. This is why most empirical research focuses on a specific presenting issue or problem (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, schizophrenia).
In this Discussion, you explore the effective use of empirical research as it applies to a psychodynamic intervention for a specific presenting issue.
To prepare for this Discussion:
• Review the assigned journal articles for this week. Pay particular attention to the Gregory & Remen (2008) article and note how psychodynamic theory can be applied to a particular disorder, in this case, borderline personality disorder.
• Conduct a brief literature search (2 or 3 articles) related to the treatment of a specific presenting issue (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, schizophrenia) of your choice using psychodynamic interventions. Look carefully for empirical literature that evaluates the treatment outcomes for a particular disorder using psychodynamic interventions.
• Review the “Psychodynamic Orientation Foundations” course media featuring Dr. Norcross. Pay particular attention to Norcross’ presentation on the current state of psychodynamic therapies and evidence-based practice.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 3 a description of your literature search results. This description should include the psychological disorder you researched and the psychodynamic interventions that were used and evaluated in your selected articles. In addition, summarize whether the interventions were found to be effective with the disorder and how this would inform a psychologist working with a client exhibiting the disorder or treatment issue. Justify your intervention selections by providing at least two empirically supported examples that support your argument, along with the appropriate citations.
Note: Put the specific presenting issue or disorder in the subject line. You will be asked to respond to a colleague who discussed a presenting issue or disorder that you did not.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources and use empirically supported research to support your points of view. Follow proper APA Style guidelines.
Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.
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