Evidence-Based Practices

Evidence-based practices, or EBPs, are therapies that have been studied academically or clinically, proved successful, and replicated by more than one investigation or review, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Seeking Safety (Trauma Treatment) is a 25-session evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral curriculum designed for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorders. The focus is on establishing safety through universal precautions, coping skills and grounding techniques for managing trauma.

Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBI-SA) is designed for individuals that are moderate to high need in the area of substance abuse. Interventions rely on a cognitive behavioral approach, dealing with triggers, and gaining skills for recovery. The curriculum includes skills training; managing cravings and urges; relapse prevention strategies for self-control and lifestyle balance; critical reasoning, and more.

Strengthening Families Program (SFP) is a nationally and internationally recognized family skills training program for high-risk families. SFP is found to significantly reduce problem behaviors, delinquency, and alcohol and drug abuse in children and to improve social competencies and school performance. Child maltreatment also decreases as parents strengthen bonds with their children and learn more effective parenting skills. In the more than twenty years since its development, SFP has been reviewed and rated as an exemplary, evidence-based program and includes sessions for children, parents, and joint sessions for whole families. SFP features lessons in communication styles for teens and their families and may also include shared meals.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Trauma Treatment) addresses the specific emotional and mental health needs of children, adolescents, adult survivors, and families who
are struggling to overcome the destructive effects of early trauma. It is especially sensitive to the unique problems of youth with post-traumatic stress and mood disorders resulting from abuse, violence, or grief.