The case of the anxious executive: a study from the research clinic

Most psychotherapists are neither active researchers nor consumers of research findings. Research approaches are needed which build a bridge between clinical realism and independent evidence, but which are applicable in National Health Service settings by clinicians lacking substantial research resources. A new method of clinical inquiry is described which combines measurement techniques developed in psychotherapy research with the therapist's session notes and client perceptions of helpful events in therapy. The method is illustrated by a case study which examines the content of helpful and unhelpful therapy sessions.