Abstract
The purpose of this manuscript is to highlight the Unified Protocol for the Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A) as an exemplar model of a principle-based, flexible treatment for adolescents with either depressive or anxiety disorders. The theoretical basis, mechanism of change, and research support for three of the UP-A's guiding treatment principles are presented. Verbal exchanges between UP-A therapists and adolescent clients are shared to demonstrate clinical processes related to UP-A techniques that follow such guiding principles. The benefits of this approach to treatment are discussed, including reduction in the number of evidence-based treatment manuals to be learned, administered, and supervised. The UP-A has demonstrated positive outcomes, yet further examination of clinical process variables is warranted. These clinical process variables and additional future directions for the UP-A are addressed.
