A Discussion of the Research Methods for the Application of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Couple and Family Therapy

Objectives: This study aims to strengthen the scientific foundation of evidence-based practice (EBP) in couple and family therapy by presenting a novel clinical application framework tailored for this field. It emphasizes the use of systematic review and meta-analysis to develop a practical and reliable implementation process. Methods: The study adopts the 5A framework of EBP (Ask, Acquire, Appraise, Apply, Analyze/Adjust) and integrates a detailed 13-step systematic review process, synthesizing existing evidence to guide clinical interventions. Meta-analyses were conducted to determine intervention effect sizes, and GRADE evaluation confirmed the reliability and effectiveness of treatments. Results: The findings establish a robust framework to identify and implement the most effective interventions in couple and family therapy, providing evidence-based precision in treatment planning and enhancing decision-making processes for practitioners. Conclusion: This study proposes a clear and replicable methodology for integrating EBP into clinical practice, promoting both theoretical advancement and practical utility. Future research should focus on piloting these methods in diverse clinical settings to further validate their application.