ABSTRACT
Scientific empiricism is not only a method but also a mindset – the willingness to abandon key cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tenets if not supported by research evidence. Therapists are encouraged to adopt the stance of a scientist-practitioner by drawing on research evidence to inform their clinical practice as well as evaluating the effectiveness of their own practice. The image CBT wants to convey is that of two scientists working together to define problems, formulate and test hypotheses about them and find problem-solving options. Beck et al. call this working together as two scientists or co-investigators 'collaborative empiricism'. Working as co-investigators into problem solving guards against the possibility of the relationship becoming one of guru and disciple – this partnership in problem solving provides the success in therapy or coaching, not the unilateral actions of the therapist or coach.
