Conducting research and collaborating with researchers: the experience of clinicians in a residential treatment center.

This paper describes the experience of clinicians in conducting research and collaborating with academic researchers. As part of clinical routine of a residential program for adolescent substance abusers, empirical data have been collected to assess client's needs before and after treatment, improve clinical practice, and identify barriers to change. Some of the challenges faced and the benefits learned in conducting these studies are presented. In addition to highlighting the convergence of research interests between clinicians and academicians, the conclusion offers general recommendations to foster these partnerships and solidify the scientific-practitioner model.