Scientist-Practitioner Model of Clinical Psychology
Encyclopedia
The scientist–practitioner model, also called the Boulder model, is a training model for graduate programs that focuses on creating a foundation of research and scientific practice. It was developed primarily to train clinical psychologist members of American Psychological Association
but has been adapted by other specialty programs. According to this model, a psychologist is a scientist
and a competent researcher, and also a practitioner who applies knowledge and techniques to solve problems of clients.
. The conference developed a model of training and education leading to professional practice in which Clinical Psychologists adhere to scientific methods, procedures, and research in their day-to-day practice. Some (e.g., Francine Shapiro
) have reframed the model as clinical psychologists as applied scientist
s. The goal of the training, educational model, an eventual practice is for clinicians to use scientific methodology in their practice-decision; to work with clients using scientifically valid methods, tools, and techniques; to inform their clients of scientifically based findings and approaches to their problems; and to conduct practice-based research.
Some have questioned if is possible, in today's climate, to continue to expect practicing clinical psychologists to be able to adhere to the ideals and tenets of the scientist–practitioner model. Many clinicians find it difficult to complete their practical duties let alone conduct research (which often goes unfunded) or to remain up-to-date with cutting edge science.
Those clinical psychologists who do adhere to a scientist-practitioner model of practice are likely to utilize techniques that have been scientifically validated through extensive research. It is widely accepted, for example, that cognitive–behavioral therapy is effective in treating a host of mental illnesses.
American Psychological Association
The American Psychological Association is the largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United States. It is the world's largest association of psychologists with around 154,000 members including scientists, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. The APA...
but has been adapted by other specialty programs. According to this model, a psychologist is a scientist
Scientist
A scientist in a broad sense is one engaging in a systematic activity to acquire knowledge. In a more restricted sense, a scientist is an individual who uses the scientific method. The person may be an expert in one or more areas of science. This article focuses on the more restricted use of the word...
and a competent researcher, and also a practitioner who applies knowledge and techniques to solve problems of clients.
Creation
The model traces its roots to the Boulder Conference on Graduate Education in Clinical Psychology (1949) held in Boulder, ColoradoBoulder, Colorado
Boulder is the county seat and most populous city of Boulder County and the 11th most populous city in the U.S. state of Colorado. Boulder is located at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of...
. The conference developed a model of training and education leading to professional practice in which Clinical Psychologists adhere to scientific methods, procedures, and research in their day-to-day practice. Some (e.g., Francine Shapiro
Francine Shapiro
Francine Shapiro, PhD, is an American psychologist who is the originator and developer of EMDR , a form of psychotherapy that was developed to resolve symptoms resulting from traumatic life experiences.In 1987 she observed, during a walk in a park, that moving her eyes seemed to reduce the stress...
) have reframed the model as clinical psychologists as applied scientist
Scientist
A scientist in a broad sense is one engaging in a systematic activity to acquire knowledge. In a more restricted sense, a scientist is an individual who uses the scientific method. The person may be an expert in one or more areas of science. This article focuses on the more restricted use of the word...
s. The goal of the training, educational model, an eventual practice is for clinicians to use scientific methodology in their practice-decision; to work with clients using scientifically valid methods, tools, and techniques; to inform their clients of scientifically based findings and approaches to their problems; and to conduct practice-based research.
Core tenets
Core tenets of the scientist–practitioner model include:- Delivering psychological assessment (psychological testingPsychological testingPsychological testing is a field characterized by the use of samples of behavior in order to assess psychological construct, such as cognitive and emotional functioning, about a given individual. The technical term for the science behind psychological testing is psychometrics...
) and psychological intervention procedures in accordance with scientifically based protocols; - Accessing and integrating scientific findings to inform healthcare decisions;
- Framing and testing hypotheses that inform healthcare decisions;
- Building and maintaining effective teamwork with other healthcare professionals that supports the delivery of scientist–practitioner contributions;
- Research-based training and support to other health professions in the delivery of psychological care;
- Contributing to practice-based research and development to improve the quality and effectiveness of psychological aspects of health care.
Some have questioned if is possible, in today's climate, to continue to expect practicing clinical psychologists to be able to adhere to the ideals and tenets of the scientist–practitioner model. Many clinicians find it difficult to complete their practical duties let alone conduct research (which often goes unfunded) or to remain up-to-date with cutting edge science.
Those clinical psychologists who do adhere to a scientist-practitioner model of practice are likely to utilize techniques that have been scientifically validated through extensive research. It is widely accepted, for example, that cognitive–behavioral therapy is effective in treating a host of mental illnesses.
Further reading
- Hayes, Steven C., Barlow, David H., & Nelson-Gray, Rosemery O. The Scientist Practitioner Research and Accountability in the Age of Managed Care (Second Edition). Boston: Allyn & Bacon, 1999. 438pp.
- Soldz, StephenStephen SoldzStephen Soldz, Ph.D., born November 19, 1952, is a psychoanalyst, clinical psychologist, professor, and anti-war activist.He has received media attention as a vocal critic regarding allegations of the use of psychological torture by the U.S...
, & McCullough, L. (Eds). Reconciling Empirical Knowledge and Clinical Experience: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 1999. 286pp.