Using an Evidence-Based Approach to Treat Drug and Alcohol Addiction

For most mental and behavioral health conditions, there is an array of treatment approaches that are effective. However, the longer you spend paying attention to these fields, the more you will find people making claims that they have found “the cure” or “the ultimate solution” to disorders that typically require far more extensive and long-term treatment than a quick-fix can provide. Instead, evidence-based treatment (EBT) refers to treatment that is backed by extensive research and scientific evidence proving that a treatment is likely to achieve successful results. 

When it comes to treating drug and alcohol addiction, there is a slew of treatments out there. Ranging from medication-assisted treatment and traditional rehab to nature retreats and even psychedelic trips that claim to rid people of their addictions. While some of these alternative methods may work for some people, addiction can be a life or death situation. Think about a loved one. If he or she was battling addiction, would you rather send this person to an outdoor vacation or camping retreat or a treatment program that uses an evidence-based approach? Although non-evidence driven therapies may have some benefits, EBT is scientifically and statistically proven to encourage sobriety, behavioral improvements, and success in treating mental health. 

What is Evidence-Based Treatment?

The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies explains that “evidence-based practice (EBP) is commonly likened to a three-legged stool…” with the three legs representing clinical scientific evidence, patient values and preferences, and a provider’s personal clinical experience (such as a therapist, psychologist, mental health counselor). 

The first, clinical evidence, describes therapies that have been researched, studied, and proven as a route of symptom relief. While it’s important to note that all mental health treatments are different and work differently on different individuals, some providers utilize statistically and scientifically proven methods, while others offer treatment with which there is no extensive scientific evidence of symptom relief. 

Keeping in mind that no two people are the same and will react differently to various treatment methods, evidence-based treatment takes into consideration to personal values and preferences of the afflicted individual. Overall, as the American Psychological Association explains, EBT utilizes the integration of the best clinical research and clinical expertise that aligns with the individual patient’s preferences, culture, and characteristics.

How is EBT Used?

Evidence-based treatment is most commonly used for the treatment of mental health conditions, childhood trauma, and substance addictions. With most of these conditions, individuals may experience psychological and physical symptoms that they must learn how to cope with. Fortunately, EBT targets the physical, mental, and spiritual attributes of each individual participating. For example, JourneyPure, a drug and alcohol rehab in Florida, describes their evidence-based treatment as “a safe environment that combines personalized medical, holistic, and clinical therapies are what works...we access the latest in medical research, therapies, and technology, combining it with our own data.”

One of the most important aspects of EBT is the patient-therapist relationship. Patients who trust and feel comfortable with their therapist are likely to have more successful and effective treatment outcomes. Since EBT focuses on applying proven techniques to individual needs, therapists that take their patient’s needs into consideration make patients feel heard, understood, and cared for. The quality of this therapeutic relationship can ultimately contribute to either positive or negative outcomes. 

Evidence-based treatment is applied in many different ways, from individual counseling and group therapy to family therapy and holistic treatments. Furthermore, if one treatment is found ineffective for a particular individual, their treatment plan remains flexible and continues to change based on his or her needs. Other examples of evidence-based treatment include:

• Behavioral therapy
• Exposure therapy
• Lifestyle modification
• Family or couples therapy
• Mindfulness
• Spirituality
• Trauma-based CBT

What are the Benefits?

Extensive studies have proven the efficiency and cost-effective attributes for using EBT to treat a wide variety of psychiatric conditions. In evidence-basted treatment programs, clinical decisions are made in collaboration with the patient. These decisions take into consideration the needs of the patient, his or her preferences, what resources are available, and the best possible evidence. When therapy and counseling are backed by research-driven evidence rather than on personal opinion ensures that patients are receiving the best possible individualized care. 

This clinically proven individualized care is essential when it comes to treating mental health conditions and substance use disorders. After all, each person who suffers from these afflictions is different. They have different pasts, different beliefs, and different needs. Using a one-size-fits-all treatment plan for these individuals is discouraged as it revolves around the belief that one type of therapy should work for everyone - which simply isn’t true. 

When it comes to treating drug or alcohol addiction, you don’t want to sell yourself short. Instead, you want the best possible care. For many of us who suffer from addiction, getting help is a life or death situation. To ensure that you are receiving the best care possible, it’s essential to find an evidence-based treatment center that will meet your needs.