Evidence-based practices (EBP) refers to treatment that is researched and supported by scientific evidence. Meaning studies have been conducted and extensive research has been documented on a particular treatment, and it has proven to be successful.
Evidence-based practices are derived from sound, science-based theories, which will incorporate detailed and empirically supported procedures and implementation guidelines, including parameters of applications (such as for populations), inclusionary and exclusionary criteria for participation, and target interventions (SAMHA, 2014).
For a treatment to be considered evidence-based, it must show evidence of positive outcomes based on peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials or other equivalent strong methodology. Chambless and Hollon (1998).
Evidence-based Practices (EBP) were defined by the American Psychological Association (2006) as “the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture, and preferences.”
Why It Matters
EBPs are important because they are safe and effective treatments likely to achieve results and lessen the use of unproven, potentially unsafe treatments. Clients have the right to know what technique or practice their clinician is subscribing to for their treatment. If a technique is unproven or unresearched, the client has the right to be informed and opt for a different treatment approach.
Evidence-Based Practices I subscribe to:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584580/
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3951033/
https://www.emdr.com/research-overview/
IFS (Internal Family Systems)
https://www.foundationifs.org/news-articles/79-ifs-an-evidence-based-practice
Motivational Interviewing
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17895731/
Resources
Chambless, D. L., & Hollon, S. D. (1998). Defining empirically supported therapies. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 66(1), 7–18. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.66.1.7
American Psychological Association, Presidential Task Force on Evidence-Based Practice. (2006). Evidence-based practice in psychology. American Psychologist, 61(4), 271–285. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.61.4.271
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4801. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2014.