Evidence-based treatment (EBT) is a popular term in the health community. However, many individuals do not know what it means. Unknown or unexplained terms can be a hindrance to addiction recovery because they can cause confusion and stress. This article explores what evidence-based treatments are, their components, and how they are implemented in addiction recovery.
Evidence-based treatment is formulated around scientific research and evidence to back it up. The practices involved in evidence-based treatment originated in the early 1990s, though they were continuing to be developed until the early 2000s. EBT can be used in mental health and substance use recovery to help individuals overcome challenges with techniques that best suit different scenarios.
EBTs incorporate clinical and professional expertise and account for the needs of each individual’s lifestyle and preferences. In addiction recovery, evidence-based treatment is used to help determine what type of treatment will best suit each individual. This is done through conducting assessments, reviewing research, and professionally connecting with the individual.
Because evidence-based treatment is intended to be customizable, it uses many models depending on the needs and comfort of the client with various treatment alternatives. These models can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), among others.
Some clinical analyses and assessments are divided into numerous sessions and can last for a few weeks depending on the individual’s needs. Some models can include families, groups, or the clinician and the individual alone. Treatment is usually facilitated in clinical settings, though some therapies can be performed in a home environment. Evidence-based practices are designed to be flexible and can be adapted for various experiences and situations.
The models can be mixed and matched to meet the needs of the individual and can be adjusted according to progress and development. Each treatment option is facilitated by a therapist or clinician so they can get feedback from the client and make adjustments or switch tactics if the client doesn't respond well to one treatment or another. Likewise, professionals can take different tools and resources from each modality for more personalized and guided intervention.
The core components of evidence-based models are:
A few features found in EBTs are psychoeducation, maintenance and relapse prevention, and skills training. These contribute to the treatment plan to help individuals gain higher insights into self-awareness and better prepare themselves for real-life scenarios and stress. Addiction recovery management is detailed differently for each individual as every situation is unique.
In evidence-based treatments, individuals will learn to practice and implement the skills and knowledge learned in treatment to take it into life after treatment. The benefits of an individualized, evidence-based recovery plan can be seen when clients can succeed on their own with the knowledge gained from treatment. Without the EBT plan formulated with a professional, the individual may be at higher risk of relapse.
Evidence-based treatments help individuals overcome challenges and struggles found with substance use. The evidence-based models and components for the treatment plan are unique to each individual so they can progress with the guidance of a professional who can recognize what will work best for them. Because there is no one way for individuals to heal from substance use, EBT plans have proven themselves time and time again.
In addiction recovery, scientists and researchers are constantly trying to expand knowledge and resources for treatment options. The more models that emerge and reflect resources and research, the more awareness and success addiction recovery treatment plans have.
Effective EBTs deliver long-term recovery with the individual's personal life, unique circumstances, and needs in mind. Evidence-based treatment revolves around research and progress with the individual’s lifestyle outlined in the initial clinical analysis. With a professional psychologist and clinician providing clinical services with evidence-based treatment models, the options for treatment are practically infinite and highly customizable.
Evidence-based treatments (EBTs) provide individuals with unique, customized plans for treatment and recovery. No two people's substance abuse stories are the same, and so no two substance abuse treatment plans should be the same. EBTs use clinicians' expertise to match each client with the treatment option that is best for them. At NorthStar Transitions, we believe that evidence-based therapies built on each individual's unique needs and wants produce the best results. With more treatment models emerging in society, we further progress the treatment plan tailored to unique and individual situations. For more information on how you or your loved one can best recover from substance abuse, reach out to our compassionate team to gain further insights on evidence-based models for addiction recovery treatment. We want to help you get the best care and give you the best chance of achieving long-term, sustainable sobriety. Contact us at (303) 558-6400 to start your healing journey today.
