evidence-based therapy:
what it is & why it matters
What is evidence-based therapy?
Evidence-based practice involves using treatments that are backed by scientific research and have been repeatedly shown to be effective across multiple scientific studies. These treatments have been rigorously tested in well-conducted randomized-controlled trials and shown to work compared to other available options.
In addition to considering the scientific evidence, evidence-based practice also integrates the patient’s values, culture, and preferences, making them highly personalized interventions, as well as the clinician’s own training and best judgement.
Although using evidence-based therapies is best practice, many clinicians rely on using other approaches that have not been scientifically tested or shown to be effective. Others may implement aspects of these interventions, but because they have not received adequate training, often are unable to implement these treatments as intended. As a result, this usually compromises how well they work, leaving many patients feeling discouraged or hopeless about their ability to get well. In either case, people often spend considerable time, money, and energy receiving inadequate or even harmful treatment that prevents them from living the lives they want to live.
What are advantages of evidence-based therapy?
The reason I am such a fan of evidence-based treatments is because they have tremendous benefits. Here are a few:
1. Evidence-based treatments work well.
Evidence-based treatments, by definition, have been shown to be effective (repeatedly) in rigorous, well-designed scientific studies. As a clinician, my goal is to make myself obsolete to my patients as quickly as possible — finding that my patients no longer need my help is one of the greatest perks of being a therapist. I am able to see this happen again and again in my practice because I rely on evidence-based treatments. To see the data on patient outcomes in my practice, click here.
2. Evidence-based treatments work quickly.
Evidence-based treatments are designed to be short-term, time-limited, and fast-moving. On average, most treatments will last between 12 and 20 sessions (note: for certain eating disorders, this number is closer to 20-40 sessions). Time in treatment does vary, however. Some patients need fewer than 12 sessions before they’re set; others, especially those who are struggling with more long-standing issues, may decide to stay in treatment for longer.
3. Evidence-based treatments are safe.
In addition to studies showing that these treatments work, evidence-based treatments have also been shown to be safe across multiple scientific studies. Unfortunately, most other approaches (i.e., treatments that are not evidence-based) typically are not tested for safety, which means there is the possibility that they may cause harm, such as worsening or prolonging the condition being treated.
5. Evidence-based treatments are highly personalized.
When implemented by a well-trained clinician, evidence-based treatments are highly personalized to the patient. Sometimes clinicians who have not received adequate training on how to implement these treatments well may struggle with personalizing these interventions effectively — but these are far from “cookie cutter” or “one size fits all” approaches. Evidence-based treatments, when delivered as designed by a clinician who has expertise in these approaches, will always be customized to your specific challenges, strengths, goals, and needs. This is what ensures that treatment is as efficient and effective as possible.
4. Evidence-based treatments are cost-effective.
Since evidence-based treatments are designed to be time-limited and result in desired changes quickly, these interventions are more cost-effective than other approaches that can keep people in therapy long durations without significant improvements.