Evidence-Based Practice

This article describes the debate in the United States between those who advocate for empirically supported treatments (ESTs) based on randomized controlled trials as the mainstay of clinical practice, and those who promote a broader definition of evidence-based practice. The latter includes (1) the value of evidence-based therapy relationships (EBTRs); (2) clinical expertise and judgment; (3) patient values, expectancies, and personality; and (4) qualitative, correlational, and case study research. The article concludes that ESTs along with EBTRs, clinicians' expertise, knowledge of theory, and taking into account the unique needs of the patient are most likely to lead to the best treatment outcomes.