IAPT: Improving Access to Psychological Therapies in UK

The UK launches IAPT, offering free evidence-based psychological therapies to millions. The largest mental health program in the world.

Evidence-based psychotherapy has demonstrated efficacy comparable to psychopharmacotherapy for most common disorders, with effects that are often more durable. The diversification of approaches — from CBT to psychodynamic treatments and third-wave therapies — has allowed interventions to be tailored to individual patient needs.

The first decade of the 21st century was a period of rapid advances in neuroscience, genetics, and behavioral economics. Functional neuroimaging allowed us to see the brain in action, while complete genomes opened the era of genetic research in psychology.

Significance: This milestone significantly contributed to the development of psychology as a science and profession, influencing research, clinical practice, or public policy.