The field of counseling psychology has begun to integrate scientific principles into the social aspect. Science-practice integration has brought forward the concept of utilizing evidence-based practice (EBP). When it comes to its applicability to practice, scientific thinking requires decisions to be made from the best available research evidence; hence, judgments are based on reviewed facts rather than theories (Cook, Schwartz, & Kaslow, 2017). Also, the application of related principles ascertains that the best kind of care is provided. When integrated appropriately, EBP can harmoniously complement decisions, thus leading to better health outcomes. On the other hand, in research, the scientific method facilitates the standardization of the approach to understanding various data types. Its unique features allow the replication of study results; therefore, new generations of researchers can minimize errors and broaden the applicability of theories. This ensures that graduates and professionals will have a more comprehensive understanding of how the human mind works as time progresses. Overall, scientific thinking can have a significant positive impact on both psychology research and practice.
New psychotherapy methods have been developed in response to the advent and development of science-based psychotherapy. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). CBT is one of the most widely used forms of treatment in treating many psychological issues. Its popularity is based on the fact that it is rapid-acting and time-limited. The treatment is centered on the principle that thought primarily influences actions and emotions. Conversely, ACT emphasizes flexibility to accept the present negative thoughts without judgment. Unlike CBT which stresses the importance of controlling psychological symptoms, ACT focuses on accepting feelings. Similarly, DBT helps people manage out-of-control emotions using particular skill sets. This should be done from a view of non-judgmental acceptance and validation of feelings. Some of the skill sets include regulating emotions and tolerating difficult situations, among others. MBSR is centered on being aware of the present and stopping focusing on the past and future. Lastly, CFT focuses on the development of self-compassion among individuals prone to self-criticism and shame.
The application of scientific thinking and counseling practice is associated with several advantages. By integrating research into clinical practice, providers use research-driven evidence to make clinical judgments. In most cases, providers consider using it as a starting framework and then, later on, individualizing the treatment depending on the patient circumstances. Moreover, this appears to be effective in situations where there is limited evidence. As a result, this increases the quality of treatment. Consequentially, this reduces the amount of time individuals spend on treatment, thereby making it more cost-effective.
Reference
Cook, S. C., Schwartz, A. C., & Kaslow, N. J. (2017). Evidence-based psychotherapy: advantages and challenges. The Journal of the American Society for Experimental Neurotherapeutics, 14(3), 537–545. Web.