Many of the barriers that prevent clinicians from applying empirically supported treatments apply to Beutler's proposal, including time constraints and accessibility of research information in useful formats. Unfortunately, clinicians' favorite theories often have not been tested in these rigorous designs. Beutler's approach offers a method for allowing clinicians to use interventions with which they feel comfortable while tailoring those interventions on the basis of scientific results. The model is a creative start, but it would benefit from guidelines for maintaining or changing a treatment plan. The original Boulder model emphasized measurement of individual outcomes in the format of a single case experimental design to guide treatment planning.
Measurement is the key to modern eclecticism.
More and more mental health professionals identify their theoretical orientation as eclectic, but some skeptical observers argue that eclecticism results in casually planned treatment that is poorly justified by research or theory. There will never be enough resources to do clinical trials comparing all possible permutations of treatment plans for all types of clients who seek help. The word eclectic does not have to connote a lack of thorough knowledge or a haphazard approach to treatment planning. The modern eclectic clinician who embraces this label may be one who eschews rigid adherence to any one theoretical orientation, finding value in many approaches. Regular measurement presupposes identifiable treatment goals and provides a reliable and valid check on the appropriateness of the treatment plan for each individual patient.