Evidence-based addiction treatment refers to rehab and recovery services that are time-tested and backed by extensive clinical research. Programs that use evidence-based practices are often reputable, effective, and have high success rates. When choosing a rehab center, it’s important to look for one that uses evidence-based practices so individuals can achieve long-term sobriety.
What Does it Mean to be “Evidence-Based?”
When treatment is “evidence-based” it is supported by science, evidence, or research. The Institute of Medicine defines evidence-based practice (EBP) as “the integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values.”[1] Evidence-based practices are not only proven effective but they can also be reproduced for different patients and in different settings while still achieving positive results.
In order for a treatment to be evidence-based, it must meet the following three standards:
- The therapy is facilitated based on the practitioner’s clinical expertise
- Its efficacy is backed by high-quality, peer-reviewed research and scientific evidence and
- The patient’s needs, beliefs, values, and circumstances are taken into consideration
While effective evidence-based treatments exist for drug and alcohol addiction, researchers have observed that these methods are not commonly practiced. Combined studies from the USA, the Netherlands, Britain, Canada, and Australia suggest that 30 to 40% of patients do not receive evidence-based treatments.[2]
At Arise Treatment Center, we pride ourselves on being a leading provider of substance abuse and mental health treatment. That’s why our multidisciplinary team of licensed professionals facilitates individualized therapies that are backed by research and are time-tested.
Why is it Important to Use Evidence-Based Practice in Addiction Treatment?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction recovery, but there are clinically proven therapies that can be customized to meet clients’ needs and help them achieve long-term sobriety. Addiction treatment centers that embrace evidence-based practice ensure that their patients have access to the most comprehensive and effective care possible, thereby improving treatment outcomes.
Evidence-Based Approaches to Addiction Treatment
Addiction is usually treated with an integrated approach that combines pharmacotherapy and behavioral therapy.
Pharmacotherapies
Pharmacotherapies are medical treatments that have been approved by the FDA and are used to reduce cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone have been proven to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse in patients struggling with opioid use disorder.
However, in order for pharmacotherapies to be effective, they must be combined with behavioral therapy and counseling. This combined approach is known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT).[3]
Behavioral Therapies
There are many types of evidence-based behavioral therapies that are designed to help clients uncover and cope with the root causes of their substance use. Behavioral therapies are also interactive and engaging, so they can encourage clients to proceed with treatment and work towards long-term success.
Although each behavioral therapy is unique, all work to improve coping skills and increase resilience to dealing with difficult situations. Some of the most widely used behavioral therapies in addiction treatment include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Contingency Management (CM)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- 12-Step Facilitation Therapy
- Family Systems Therapy
- Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
While each of these therapies is backed by research, they must be tailored to meet the unique needs of clients in order to maximize their benefits.
How to Find an Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment Center
People who seek addiction treatment rely on these facilities to provide life-changing care that paves the way for life-long sobriety. As a result, it’s important to make sure the rehab center a person attends uses evidence-based practices.
Since many rehab centers don’t use evidence-based practice, individuals should be sure to vet the program by asking the following questions:
- What are the program’s success rates? How are those success rates measured?
- Are the therapies used backed by scientific research as well as the medical community?
- Does the program use comprehensive services that can be individually tailored to meet the client’s personal needs?
- Are the therapies and services offered based on current, up-to-date, and peer-reviewed research?
- Are the therapists licensed? What do they specialize in?
Asking these questions can help prospective patients determine whether or not a substance abuse treatment facility is evidence-based and reputable.
An Approach to Recovery That Really Works at Arise Treatment Center
The staff at Arise Treatment Center understands that the most successful approach toward recovery is one that is scientifically sound and sensitive to each clients’ personal needs. That’s why the team is dedicated to delivering evidence-based addiction treatment and therapies that really work.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, you’ve come to the right place. Our individualized and holistically-tailored program can help you heal from the effects of addiction and create a plan for long-term recovery. Don’t wait any longer to get the help you deserve. Call now to speak with a dedicated admissions specialist.
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