Challenges to getting evidence into practice: Expert clinician perspectives on psychotherapy for personality disorders

Abstract

Background

No known recent studies have investigated service provision for personality disorder in Australia, despite international studies suggesting provision of such services is sub-optimal.

Aims

This study aimed to gain insight into psychotherapy provided for personality disorders, treatments considered optimal by clinicians and opinions of clinicians on the current levels of care.

Methods

The views of 60 experienced clinicians working with personality disorders were sampled.

Results

Data showed significant gaps between current practices for the treatment of personality disorders provided by clinicians compared to their perceptions of optimal treatment practice.

Conclusions

This study highlights the evidence–practice gap and the need for more training for clinicians in the treatment of personality disorders and service improvements to implement optimal care strategies.

Keywords:

• personality disorders
• psychotherapy
• evidence-based practice
• treatment guidelines