Addiction and Mental Health Treatment California

The Science Behind Rehabilitation

Evidence-based practices in addiction treatment are widely becoming accepted – and generally required – as the most credible practices at drug rehab centers around the country. For the addict or alcoholic, evidenced-based practices mean that their treatment will be based on therapies that have been tested and proven using various scientific methods. But for some clinicians, this means adopting techniques that may stray from traditional practices. Therefore, understanding EBP is critical for addiction treatment professionals and those in recovery because as new treatment modalities are tested, they may eventually be considered an evidence-based practice.

For the addict or alcoholic, this means that the treatment available to them by reaching out for help is literally “tried and true,” and has probably already helped thousands of individuals triumph over their addictions. To be effective, evidence-based practices must be:

• Readily Available : Addicts and alcoholics should not be required to expend significant energy to obtain the treatment they need.
• Affordable : Whether paid for by insurance or self-pay, treatments must not be cost-prohibitive.
• Individualized : Treatment must be developed specifically for the individual based on their personal needs.
• Addresses Underlying Causes and Co-Occurring Conditions : Treatment must address mental, physical, and emotional issues that cause, contribute to or exacerbate addictive behaviors.
• Of Sufficient Duration : Treatment must last long enough to assure a successful long-term recovery.
• Constantly Evolving : Treatment plans must change as the individual changes.