Description:

For more than sixty years in clinical psychology we have attempted to integrate science into practice for the benefit of the public. After a brief review of the progress we have made and the reasons for the emergence of evidence-based practice, we will consider current barriers to dissemination and implementation. These include the relative (in) efficacy of current psychological interventions, issues of comorbidity and heterogeneity of psychopathology, the ambiguity concerning mechanisms of action in treatments, a continuing emphasis on nomothetic rather than idiographic methodology, and emerging issues of implementation in clinical settings. The centrality of these issues to public health policy will dictate a marked shift in emphasis in both research and practice in the coming decade.

Educational Objectives:

1. Describe the reasons for the emergence of evidence-based psychological treatments and the progress that has been made to date.
2. List the current barriers or obstructions to evidence-based practice.
3. Describe specific barriers to dissemination and implementation and two current models for overcoming these barriers.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*