The chapter discusses the debate surrounding the effectiveness of psychotherapy, particularly focusing on Bruce Wampold's book "The Great Psychotherapy Debate." The author, G.P.J. Keijsers, highlights the importance of understanding why psychotherapy works and the differences in perspectives between academic research and clinical practice. He argues that while common factors such as the therapeutic alliance are important, specific therapeutic techniques also play a significant role in treatment outcomes. Keijsers critiques the "circular model" proposed by Lambert, which suggests that common factors like the therapeutic alliance contribute 100% of the therapeutic effect, and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of these factors. He also challenges the notion that specific therapeutic techniques are insignificant, citing extensive research showing that specific techniques can have substantial effects. Keijsers concludes by advocating for a more integrated approach that combines specific techniques with common factors to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy.The chapter discusses the debate surrounding the effectiveness of psychotherapy, particularly focusing on Bruce Wampold's book "The Great Psychotherapy Debate." The author, G.P.J. Keijsers, highlights the importance of understanding why psychotherapy works and the differences in perspectives between academic research and clinical practice. He argues that while common factors such as the therapeutic alliance are important, specific therapeutic techniques also play a significant role in treatment outcomes. Keijsers critiques the "circular model" proposed by Lambert, which suggests that common factors like the therapeutic alliance contribute 100% of the therapeutic effect, and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of these factors. He also challenges the notion that specific therapeutic techniques are insignificant, citing extensive research showing that specific techniques can have substantial effects. Keijsers concludes by advocating for a more integrated approach that combines specific techniques with common factors to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy.