Psychotherapist Questions: Asking the Right Things | Sigmund Freud
- A recent review of Mark Solms's book,The Only Cure,highlighted a concerning lack of scientific curiosity within the field of psychotherapy,despite its widespread assertion of effectiveness.
- Critics argue that simple, controlled trials could readily assess the efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy.
- Raymond Tallis, in a review published on January 12, 2026, in The Guardian, noted this absence of inquiry.
Psychotherapy Lacks Rigorous Research Despite Claims of Effectiveness
A recent review of Mark Solms’s book,The Only Cure,highlighted a concerning lack of scientific curiosity within the field of psychotherapy,despite its widespread assertion of effectiveness. The field often claims research is impossible, a position that contradicts its focus on understanding people.
Calls for Controlled Trials
Critics argue that simple, controlled trials could readily assess the efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy. Potential comparisons include therapy versus conversations with untrained individuals, therapy versus regular exercise, varying therapy durations, therapy versus continuing education, therapy versus a control waiting list, or even therapy versus direct cash transfers - notably relevant given current discussions around worldwide basic income.
Raymond Tallis, in a review published on January 12, 2026, in The Guardian, noted this absence of inquiry. “The Only Cure” review
Underlying Issues of Scientific Rigor
The core issue isn’t a lack of ideas for research, but a lack of discipline in implementing them. The principles of scientific inquiry – curiosity, creativity, discipline, and a foundation of knowlege – are applicable to psychology, yet psychodynamic psychologists appear hesitant to embrace uncertainty and actively generate new knowledge.
A key question remains: is this lack of interest a result of the individuals drawn to the field, or a flaw in the training they receive?