Medical family therapy scientist-practitioners

Abstract

The scientist-practitioner model of training and practice highlights the interconnected relationships between clinical practice and research. As described by Crane and Hafen (2002), the term "scientist-practitioner" is used to describe behavioral health providers and training programs that both utilize and produce clinical research. The model highlights three interrelated roles: A consumer of new research, evaluator of one's own clinical skills, and researcher who reports original work and findings (Crane, Wampler, Seprenkle, Sandberg, & Hovestadt, 2002). Therefore, scientist-practitioners may provide treatment, evaluate clinical research, and conduct research or perform any combination of these. Ultimately, they are united in their understanding, appreciation, and drive to connect the worlds of research and clinical practice.