The Complexity of Evidence Notwithstanding: A Reply to Swartz

Abstract

This article is a response to the caveats raised by Swartz (this issue) regarding the complexities of emphasising evidence-based interventions in psychology. It is acknowledged that the process of amassing evidence to support psychological interventions requires overcoming considerable logistical and contextual difficulties. Yet, the dangers of not taking into account the vast body of data on the effectiveness of psychotherapy are likely to have serious consequences for consumers of psychological service and for the profession of psychology itself. The challenge for South African psychology is to address the complexities raised by Swartz in ways that minimise leaps of faith regarding the effectiveness of interventions so that therapeutic decisions are based on sound data rather than unsubstantiated theoretical conjecture.

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