The basic science/clinical science interface and treatment development.

Abstract

Psychological constructs often are incorporated into treatments before they are investigated systematically from a basic-science perspective. We discuss the potential costs of such a sequence of events and the potential benefits of closer working ties between basic and clinical scientists, and we consider how applying basic knowledge of cognitive processes could enhance our understanding of psychotherapy outcome and mechanisms of action. We call upon clinical and basic scientists to engage in a more “mindful” enterprise of translational research.