3 ECVET/ECTS / EQF Level 7 / 3rd and 4th year of study – IP
Module Description:
This module provides theoretical and practical knowledge of research methods in psychotherapy, enabling participants to develop critical thinking and scientific data analysis. The focus is on understanding and applying qualitative and quantitative research methods, the ethical aspects of research, and the integration of scientific findings into clinical practice. The European Association for Integrative Psychotherapy is committed to fostering research among its member organisations and is a major sponsor of the European Journal for Qualitative Research in Psychotherapy (www.EJQRP.org). A number of EAIP members are involved in the publication of this journal.
Special attention is given to modern methods of monitoring and analysing therapeutic processes, including the Synergetic Navigation System (SNS)1 – an innovative methodology for personalised psychotherapy developed by Prof. Dr. Günter Schiepek. The module explores how non-linear and complex processes of change in psychotherapy can be measured and tailored to the individual needs of the client within their ecosystem. This approach enables participants to use internet and app technology for monitoring and optimising psychotherapy processes, thereby opening opportunities for applying the most advanced European standards in psychotherapy research.
The module includes:
- Basics of Research Methodology – differences between qualitative and quantitative methods in psychotherapy.
- Research design in psychotherapy – longitudinal studies, case studies, and action research.
- Measuring psychotherapy outcomes – assessing the effectiveness of various therapeutic interventions.
- Synergetic Navigation System (SNS) – the application of personalized and process-sensitive methods for monitoring therapeutic changes.
- Data analysis – statistical tools and interpretation of clinical results.
- Writing research papers – academic writing and presentation of findings.
- Ethical issues in research – protection of subjects, informed consent, and data confidentiality.
Learning Outcomes:
Competencies
Upon completion of this module, students will be qualified to:
a) Independently conduct research in psychotherapy, including the application of the SNS methodology.
b) Critically analyze scientific papers and evaluate the quality of research.
c) Integrate research findings into clinical practice and the development of therapeutic methods.
Knowledge
Upon completion of this module, students will have acquired:
a) An understanding of basic and advanced research methods in psychotherapy.
b) Knowledge of ethical standards in research with clients.
c) Insight into contemporary techniques of personalized psychotherapy and monitoring therapeutic changes.
Skills
By the end of the module, students will develop:
a) The ability to plan and conduct research projects in the field of psychotherapy.
b) Skills in academic writing and presenting research findings.
c) Competence in interpreting and applying research results in clinical practice.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies:
– Writing a mini research project or analysing a scientific study
– Presentation of research findings to a group of peers
– Discussion on methodological challenges in psychotherapy research
Total Learning Hours:
| Total learning hours: 90 hours | Independent study: 35 hours |
| Contact hours: 50 hours | Knowledge assessment (exams and presentations): 5 hours |