Using Evidence-Based Practice in Behavioral Health: State-Driven Initiatives Focus on Improving Care to the Mentally Ill

OPEN MINDS, The Behavioral Health & Social Service Industry Analyst Industry Feature After much anticipation, the Center for Mental Health Services’ (CMHS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released six evidence-based practice (EBP) toolkits in 2006 that are expected to yield better outcomes for consumers and raise confidence in the use of these practices by behavioral health professionals. In theory, the EBP initiative is aimed at reflecting the goals of individual consumers who have a right to effective treatment services. For the scientific community, EBPs have credibility, because they are rooted in science and reputable . . .