Applied Research Methods in Psychotherapy Practice

Developing a Research Culture in Psychotherapy

In today’s professional landscape, it is more important than ever for psychotherapists to engage actively with research. This may involve staying informed about the latest findings in the field or undertaking research driven by their own practice-based questions.

Such engagement enhances the quality and integrity of individual practice. It also meets growing demands from clients, funders, and regulatory bodies for evidence of therapeutic effectiveness.

To support this development, the Danish Association for Psychotherapists has launched a series of research modules designed to foster a robust research culture within its community of practitioners and beyond.

These modules represent a vital step toward gaining broader recognition of psychotherapy in Denmark. They also ensure that graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required at Level 7 of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). Moreover, the modules serve as an essential component for programmes seeking Level 7 accreditation in Europe.

Delivery

The research modules are designed to be integrated into existing psychotherapy training programmes or taken as a stand-alone course by individual practitioners. In the former case, the modules are intended to support and inform students’ research as part of their final-year project.

All modules are delivered online and are available in either Danish or English. Each module includes five two-hour teaching sessions, with one to two hours of preparation required between sessions. In total, the guided learning time amounts to 50 hours. The scheduling and frequency of sessions are agreed upon in collaboration with participating training providers.

Video introduction

Hear the module leaders talk about the research modules

The modules

Introduction to Research Principles, Perspectives and Practice

This module introduces students to key theoretical perspectives within the philosophy of science and connects these to practitioner-led research in psychotherapy. It presents various research paradigms and their underlying philosophical and epistemological assumptions. Students also explore practical challenges in conducting research, including questions of evidence, validity, and reliability.

Indicative content:

The role of theory and philosophical frameworks in research
Strengths and limitations of qualitative and quantitative paradigms
Core methodological concepts: validity, reliability, transparency, testability
Challenges and opportunities in psychotherapy research, including ethical considerations
Navigating and evaluating current research literature

Action Research

This module provides an introduction to the foundations and methods of action research within the psychotherapy context. Students explore its historical development and methodological approaches, with a focus on research as a dynamic, evolving process—whether collaborative or individual.

Indicative content:

Historical development of action research
Methodological approaches and philosophical underpinnings
Research methods: test actions, interviews, focus groups, document analysis
Opportunities and ethical challenges of action research in psychotherapy

Phenomenology and Qualitative Methods

This module explores phenomenology both as a philosophical tradition and a qualitative research methodology. Students examine key concepts such as intentionality, the natural attitude, and bracketing, and apply these through examples of phenomenological research in psychotherapy.

Indicative content:

Phenomenology as a historical and philosophical movement
Core concepts: intentionality, natural attitude, bracketing
Applied phenomenological research methods using psychotherapy case studies
Ethical considerations and the value of phenomenology in psychotherapy research

Quantitative and Mixed Methods

This module introduces students to quantitative and mixed methods research in psychotherapy. It offers a broad overview of key principles, tools for ensuring validity and reliability, and the benefits and challenges of integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches.

Indicative content:

Introduction to quantitative research and its standards for validity and reliability
Overview of mixed methods in social science and psychotherapy
Strategies for combining qualitative and quantitative data
Ethical and practical considerations of mixed methods research

Researching Own Practice

This final module enables students to apply research principles to their own professional practice. Using mentoring, case studies, and peer feedback, students develop a research-based approach to their work—culminating in the design of their final-year project.

Indicative content:

Case studies of practitioner-led research
Peer mentoring and group discussion
Guidance on developing research questions, rationale, and strategy
Ethical implications and practical value of researching one’s own practice

Learning Platform

The modules are delivered via Moodle, an online learning platform that provides access to all required readings and resources. All sessions are recorded for later review. Students must have access to a suitable device (e.g., laptop or tablet) to participate fully.

Assessment and Certification

When included as part of psychotherapy training programmes, the modules are assessed through the student’s final project. Faculty from the Research Modules team may be engaged to evaluate final projects upon request or as required by accreditation bodies. Participants receive a certificate of attendance from DPFO, provided they attend at least 80% of sessions.