The Curious Case of Uncuriosity in Psychotherapy

Professor Raymond Tallis’s review of Mark solms’s book The Only Cure rightly highlights a critical issue: the surprising lack of curiosity within psychotherapy. Despite positioning itself as a field deeply concerned with understanding people, psychotherapy often resists rigorous inquiry.

The Paradox of “it Works” and “Research Can’t Be Done”

The common refrain within the field – that “it works” yet “research can’t be done” – is fundamentally counterintuitive. Any field genuinely interested in its subject matter should embrace the scientific method and actively seek to understand how and why its interventions are effective. This resistance to scrutiny is particularly puzzling given the resources and intellectual capacity available.

Simple, Achievable research designs

Generating ideas for meaningful research isn’t difficult. The challenge lies in the discipline required to implement them. Consider these potential trial designs:

• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy vs. Untrained Conversation: Does talking to a trained therapist offer benefits beyond simply talking to a supportive, but untrained, individual?
• Therapy vs. Option activities: How does therapy compare to other possibly beneficial activities like a weekly gym membership or an evening education class?
• Therapy Duration: Is there an optimal length for therapy? Do longer sessions consistently yield better results than shorter ones?
• Therapy vs. Waiting List: A classic control group – does therapy demonstrably improve outcomes compared to simply waiting for problems to resolve on their own?
• Therapy vs. Financial Support: In an era of increasing financial strain and discussions around universal basic income, could a cash transfer provide comparable benefits to therapy?

The Foundations of Scientific Progress

Science thrives on curiosity, creativity, and discipline, all built upon a foundation of knowledge. These same principles are directly applicable to psychology. A willingness to question assumptions, explore alternative explanations, and rigorously test hypotheses is essential for advancing the field.

The Path Forward

The current state of affairs suggests a concerning lack of intellectual rigor within psychotherapy. Embracing a more scientific approach – one characterized by genuine curiosity and a commitment to evidence-based practice – is crucial for ensuring that the field truly serves the needs of those seeking help. The future of psychotherapy depends on its willingness to move beyond simply asserting effectiveness and instead actively demonstrating it through robust research.