Practice-based research: Routine outcome monitoring and practice research networks across contexts

Abstract

In this chapter the authors discuss the importance of practice-based evidence as a complement to traditional research methods. Practice-based research privileges therapy practiced in naturalistic settings and aims to quickly return results to clinicians to inform their practice. Practice research networks (PRNs) and routine monitoring (ROM) are recommended as two ways to gather practice-based evidence. PRNs are a collaboration between community-based agencies and academic institutions that partner with each other to improve the quality of community-based care and investigate questions related to practice in community-based settings. ROM, also known as measurement-based care, feedback informed treatment, and progress feedback, is an approach to improving client outcomes that focuses on routinely administering formal assessment measures to clients throughout treatment and then using client responses to inform treatment decisions. The chapter presents best practices for implementing ROM and PRNs in systemic therapy with adaptations that are required for international settings. © 2026 Richard B. Miller and Lee N. Johnson.