Introduction to formulation

Abstract

Formulation is a topic that is continuing to attract attention in psychology, psychotherapy, counselling and psychiatry. It is a defi ning competency of the profession of clinical psychology (Division of Clinical Psychology, 2010), which has recently published best practice guidelines for its members (DCP, 2011.) It is also listed as a skill in the Health and Care Professions Council regulations for health, educational, forensic, counselling, and sports and exercise psychologists (Health Professions Council, 2009), and in the curriculum for psychiatrists’ training in the UK (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2010). However, although it is arguably central to the implementation of any psychological intervention, its conceptual and empirical basis remains to be fi rmly established. It has until recently been a neglected area of research, training and publication, especially in the areas of complex and integrative formulation.