The Possibilities and the Slippery Slope of Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology: Why Humanistic and Existential Psychologists Must Engage the Conversation

Evidence-based practice in psychology (EBPP) is the current zeitgeist in mental health practice. How EBPP is defined, understood, and applied in the field of psychology at large and by insurance companies and regulatory agencies has an influence on the practice of psychotherapy. It can impact how and if humanistic and existential psychotherapy are practiced in some settings. Humanistic and existential psychologists have been critical of this movement but often have not recognized its potential. This article offers a definition rooted in the understanding of EBPP presented in the seminal article in the American Psychologist by the American Psychological Association Presidential Task Force on Evidence-Based Practice (2006) and further informed by humanistic principles and values. Humanistic and existential psychologists are encouraged to join in the conversations about EBPP advocating for a broad, inclusive understanding of EBPP. Public Significance StatementIn additional to providing a path for humanistic psychologists to engage in dialogues about what is considered EBPP, this article provides recommendations on how humanistic and existential psychologists can use principles of EBPP to demonstrate support for their approach to psychotherapy.