Table 1 (Categories of) exclusion criteria found in psychotherapy efficacy trials

Bipolar disorder or history of (hypo-) manic episode

95%

Schizophrenia, a history of psychosis or psychotic features

90%

Current or past abuse or dependence on alcohol and/or drugs

- Alcohol abuse or dependence

85%

- Drug abuse or dependence

Not meeting a minimum severity threshold

80%

Previous use of medication or ECT

- ECT less than 6 months before start of trial

70%

- History of use of a tricyclic antidepressant

- Use of amitriptyline less than 3 months prior to trial

- Use of imipramine less than 3 months prior to trial

- Use of paroxetine less than 1 year prior to trial

- Use of any antidepressant less than 2 months prior to trial

- Use of any antidepressant less than 1 month prior to trial

- Use of any antidepressant less than 2 weeks prior to trial

- Current use of an antidepressant

Co morbid personality disorder

- Borderline personality disorder

60%

- Antisocial personality disorder

- Schizotypical personality disorder

Cognitive disorders

- Cognitive disorders in general

55

- Organic brain syndrome

- Delirium or dementia

- Mental retardation

Somatic concerns

- Somatic co morbidity in general

55%

- Co morbid somatisation disorder

Anxiety disorder as primary diagnosis

- Generalized anxiety disorder

45%

- Specific phobia

- Obsessive-compulsive disorder

- Panic disorder

Contra indication for the use of medication in general

45%

Suicidal ideation

40%

Previous psychotherapy, with or without success

History of psychotherapy

- Psychotherapy less than 5 years prior to trial

- Psychotherapy less than 2 years prior to trial

- Psychotherapy less than 1 year prior to trial

- Psychotherapy less than 2 months prior to trial

- Current psychotherapy

Psychiatric co morbidity in general, including eating disorders

25%

Crisis

- Need for immediate intervention

20%

- Indication for admission