Psychotherapy as an evidence-based clinical practice is a relatively young field. In defining psychotherapy, we will outline a continuum – from the use of psychological methods to improve well-being to psychotherapy as an evidence-based method of treating mental disorders. We discuss the types of outcome research, metaanalyses and recommendations for practice. Based on the example of research program TRAKT on psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy PTSD conducted in Poland, we will point out important questions of modern psychotherapy regarding the interpretation of research results, patient safety, personalization of treatment and ways of development and its place in the mental healthcare.

In the article the author discusses peculiarities of three areas of psychologists’ professional activity: conducting scientific research, educating new generations of psychologists, and having a private practice. He particularly stresses the significance of empirical testability of theories for correct and ethical assessment practice (according to Evidence-Based Assessment standard) and therapeutic practice (according to Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology standard). The author also explores the cultural immersion of psychological activity.