‘Science is always the foundation for finding the best treatment, but we should broaden our scope'
As of 1 August, Anika Bexkens has been appointed Professor of Evidence-Based Clinical Practice for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. Her research focuses on the optimal application of scientific knowledge in practice. ‘There's sometimes still a disconnection between scientists and practitioners.'
The choice between working as a psychologist or a researcher was never one Anika Bexkens wished to make. Early in her career, these roles blended seamlessly. ‘At the University of Amsterdam, a new research master's programme had just started, and a lecturer encouraged me to apply. Meanwhile, I had also arranged a clinical internship. Why not do both?, I thought.’ Her dual role has shown her how scientists and clinicians sometimes fail to connect. ‘There are many links to be made between research and practice, and I am eager to help forge those connections.’
Mismatch
‘I focus on the question: how do you apply scientific knowledge as effectively as possible in practice? Meanwhile, I observe that practitioners and researchers have different goals. Scientists develop knowledge out of curiosity and a desire to understand how things work. In clinical practice, the question is: how can I use this knowledge to help someone? This difference in perspective means that while researchers seek truth, practitioners seek applicability. This divergence often makes it challenging for them to find common ground, although it is highly valuable when they do.’
‘Because of different ways of thinking, it can be challenging for scientists and practitioners to find common ground'
Tailored approach
‘In recent years, evidence-based practice has gained popularity. It is about making the best decision for individual clients, using science as the foundation. However, tailored approaches are needed for individual clients, which evidence-based practice allows by integrating clinical expertise and client preferences. It is crucial for practitioners to know how to assess and wisely apply scientific knowledge, understanding its limits and knowing when to deviate from the standard. How to best integrate these various information sources is still unknown. As a Professor of Evidence-Based Clinical Practice for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, this is what I aim to explore.’
Being a guest
‘What I love about my work at LUBEC and GGZ Delfland is that you get to walk alongside someone for a while and help them. You are always somewhat of a guest in someone’s life, which makes it special. Especially when you manage to help someone reorganise their life in the way they desire. It’s not about being sick or not sick, crazy or not crazy. Everyone faces challenges they wish to change and fears they want to overcome. It’s gratifying to be the person who can occasionally give that little push.’
'As a psychologist, you're always somewhat of a guest in someone’s life'
Research on anxiety treatment
‘Our current research project, 'Facing Fears Together,' focuses on anxiety treatment in adolescents. We are examining whether anxiety treatment is more effective when young people receive help and advice from a peer who has previously undergone the same treatment. This treatment is exposure therapy, proven effective against anxiety. Ideally, therapists start with situations that significantly provoke anxiety in the client. I work with many individuals with intellectual disabilities, and when their stress levels are too high, they may become overwhelmed or shut down. Therefore, in this project, we chose to deviate from the standard by gradually building up the exposure therapy. We collaborate in a multidisciplinary team of scientist-practitioners—scientists who also work in practice and practitioners who are trained in science or enjoy participating in practical research tasks. Iris Langereis, a PhD candidate in Leiden, is also working on this topic.’
Relying on your team
‘The new generation of scientists values team science. More people want to work in broad teams, so you no longer have to know and do everything yourself. You can rely on each other’s expertise. I have also learned this in practice: to really lean on your team. Treating clients can sometimes be tough. You have to make decisions without all the information, unsure of what will work best for a family. Fortunately, you can rely on your team for support. Sharing both the joys and sorrows, as well as exchanging expertise, is vital. This approach contributes to a healthier work environment.’
‘In practice, you learn to lean on your team’
Easing depression with VR
‘Another project where we collaborate closely across disciplines is our research at GGZ Delfland on the role of VR in depression treatment. This research is part of a larger VR research line I developed with my colleagues at GGZ Delfland. We created a virtual environment that stimulates positive emotions in adolescents and adults with depression. In this VR environment, they are invited to engage in activities like chatting in a supermarket or petting a kitten. It makes people aware of the positive feelings that are sometimes still there, even if very small. The added value of VR is that it places you in situations hard to imagine otherwise. Such virtual scenarios evoke strong emotions, encouraging clients to engage fully. Suddenly, they can explain why they find it so daunting to talk to someone in a supermarket. Ultimately, they practice more in the ‘real world.’.