The use of evidence-based assessment for anxiety disorders in an Australian sample

Anxiety disorders are common and cause considerable functional impairment. Fortunately, evidence-based treatments are available, however, treatment effectiveness is often reliant on the provision of an accurate diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis requires a multi-method evidence-based assessment (EBA). Assessment techniques available to clinicians include a clinical interview, semi-structured diagnostic interview, self-report/clinician-administered rating scales and direct observation. Research demonstrates that only a small number of therapists utilize EBA, and to date this has not been investigated in an Australian sample. One hundred and two registered Australian psychologists (Mage = 40.98; SD = 12.67; 83.6% female) participated in an online study investigating assessment practices. Participants were asked to indicate EBA frequency of use and the obstacles they face to using EBA. The majority of participants (69% working with adult patients and 51% working with pediatric patients) reported partial use of EBA. Few psychologists (21% working with adult patients and 11% working with child patients) indicated complete use of EBA. Thirty-six percent of participants indicated negative beliefs about the usefulness or helpfulness of EBA. Multiple obstacles to the use of EBA were reported including concerns with the time required to complete assessment (27%), and a lack of access to assessment tools (10%). Implications for training and clinical practice are discussed.