Adapting Evidence-Based Psychotherapies While Maintaining Fidelity

AbstractPurpose of reviewExtensive resources have been devoted to implementing evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) to facilitate the best available treatments to clients. Yet, when treatment settings or client characteristics do not align with the contexts in which an EBP was developed and tested, adaptations may be indicated. The purpose of this article is to provide a summary of the adaptation literature and highlight key issues, using Cognitive Processing Therapy as an example throughout the paper.Recent findingsInformed by the literature to date, we use Stirman and colleagues ’ Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications (FRAME) to organize current thinking and provide a guide for conceptualizing different types of adaptations. Broadly, we discuss (1) why adapt, (2) goals of the adaptation, (3) who is involved in the adaptation process, (4) when to adapt, (5) forms of adaptation, and (6) measurement and evaluation.SummaryAs effective interventions for PTSD are developed and identified, implementation in routine care settings will increase access for underserved populations, who may not have been well-represented in the research that originally established efficacy or effectiveness of the EBP. However, a careful process of EBP adaptation, informed by theory, research, and program-level evaluation, can result in successful implementation. Stakeholder-informed, carefully-evaluated adaptation can allow more individuals to benefit from treatment.

Source: Current Treatment Options in Psychiatry - July 21, 2019 Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research