Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>This initial chapter sets out the overall structure of the book by placing priority on the paradigm of practice-based evidence as a method of scientific research equally credible as that of randomized controlled trials. It locates practice-based evidence as deriving from practice-oriented research, and as complementary to trials methodology. Accordingly, it aspires to hold both methods in a state of equipoise. The chapter then presents the two main goals of the book, which are to (1) highlight some of the most influential practice-oriented research programs across a diversity of clinical settings and various regions of the world, and (2) derive research, training, clinical, and public policy implications from these research programs. It ends with a brief introduction to the remaining chapters within the book, as well as the writing guidelines proposed to the authors of these chapters.</jats:p>