Modularity in the design and application of therapeutic interventions

Abstract

This paper introduces the concept of modularity as an approach to therapeutic protocol design and application. Modularity is defined in terms of four key properties, and a detailed example of a modular psychotherapy protocol is presented. By explicitly outlining clinical strategies and algorithms, modular design of psychotherapy protocols provides a promising framework for testing many of the assumptions underlying traditional therapy protocols. Modular design also offers numerous potential advantages in terms of design efficiency (reusability of modules, ease of updating or reorganizing protocols) and effectiveness (e.g., greater adaptability for applied contexts, increased therapist satisfaction). Finally, preliminary evidence for the efficacy of modular protocols is encouraging, and suggests that such design should preserve and could even enhance the efficacy of existing therapy protocols.