Am J Psychiatry 1982; 139:718-727
Copyright © 1982 by American Psychiatric Association
Psychotherapy research evidence and reimbursement decisions: Bambi meets Godzilla
MB Parloff
Research evidence on psychotherapy outcome is both extensive and positive.
However, the evidence is not responsive to the question. What kinds of
psychotherapy are most effective for what kinds of problems? It is
demonstrably feasible to conduct scientifically meritorious studies of
process and outcome; however, the prospect that rigorous research evidence
will soon provide a credible list of "certified" psychotherapy techniques
and procedures for the treatment of specific disorders is poor. The author
presents recommendations for what the doctor can do for the policy maker
"until the researcher comes."
