Teaching evidence-based practice: A comparison of two disciplines

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe increasing emphasis on research supported treatments in behavioral health requires clinicians to develop knowledge and skills for evidence-based practice. Graduate professional degree programs must address this in preparation for the emerging workforce. In this paper, we synthesize results from two related studies that examined the extent to which master’s level professional degree programs prepare future practitioners to deliver a process of evidence-based practice or specific evidence-based treatments. We compare these results with a previous study of North American administrators and supervisors who hire graduates from Master's level professional degree programs. The first study explored the Masters in Social Work curricula, and the second study examined Marriage and Family Therapy programs. Professionals with these graduate degrees are primary providers of behavioral health treatment. Results demonstrate how both disciplines are changing and offer both rationale and concerns voiced by program deans and directors. Compared with a study of provider perspectives, the collective results indicate institutions of higher education are providing at least modest levels of training in evidence-based treatments. We conclude with suggestions for university partnership with behavioral health and social service programs.