The Y model: an integrated, evidence-based approach to teaching psychotherapy competencies

J Psychiatr Pract. 2009 Jan;15(1):5-11. doi: 10.1097/01.pra.0000344914.54082.eb.

Abstract

Objective: The authors' goal was to develop an integrated model for teaching psychotherapy competencies across schools of therapy.

Method: The authors surveyed the comparative psychotherapy process literature to identify core features of psychotherapy shared across schools and differentiate those features from the defining features of psychodynamic therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Results: The resulting Y Model for teaching psychotherapy competencies locates core processes of therapy that are shared across schools on the stem of the Y, differentiates psychodynamic therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy on the branches of the Y, and locates supportive therapy largely on the stem of the Y.

Conclusions: The Y Model offers an efficient, integrated, evidence-based system for teaching psychotherapy competencies across schools in a conceptually clear way that is free of competition and bias between schools.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy
  • Humans
  • Patient Care Team
  • Professional Competence*
  • Psychotherapy / methods*
  • Teaching / methods*

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents