Introduction to Clinical Psychology Bridging Science and Practice

In this chapter, we describe features common to most clinical interventions, focusing primarily on psychotherapy. We begin by examining what psychotherapy is and contrasting it with how it is portrayed in popular media. We describe what research tells us about clients and therapists and which of their characteristics influence therapy outcomes. Next, we examine the goals and basic processes involved in clinical interventions, as well as the professional and ethical codes that help guide practitioners in conducting treatment. Finally, we consider certain practical aspects of treatment such as treatment duration, fees, record keeping, treatment planning, therapist self-disclosure, and termination.