MHDD Services for Children and Youth

Evidence-Based Practices

What are Evidence-Based Practices?

Similar definitions exist that mean evidence-based, and certain criteria determine if a program or practice is evidence-based. These classifications tend to be on a continuum that at a minimum assesses the quality of the evaluation, design and methodology, the outcomes produced and for whom, the replication by more than one researcher, and the availability of a manual. The more criteria the program meets the more grounded in science the program or intervention is thought to be.

The states of Hawaii and Virginia have conducted extensive reviews of the evidence base for the effectiveness of treatments in child mental health. To further the goal of developing and applying evidence-based practices in Tennessee, the Children and Youth Services section is focused on program outcomes that will guide planning and practice and improve services to children and youth with mental health disorders.

Evidence-based practices have been defined in the following ways:

"Evidence-based practice is the integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values......Patient values refers to the unique preferences, concerns, and expectations that each patient brings to a clinical encounter." (Institute of Medicine, 2001, p. 147; President's Commission 2003, p. 68)

"Evidence-based practices are interventions for which there is consistent scientific evidence showing that they improve client outcomes." (Drake et al., 2001, p. 180)

For more information about evidence-based practices, click here:

References
Burns, B.J., Hoagwood, K., & Mrazek, P.J. (1999). Effective treatment for mental disorders in children and adolescents. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 2(4), 199-254 .
Hawaii Department of Health. (2002). Summary of effective interventions for youth with behavioral and emotional needs. Author. Evidence Based Services Committee Biennial Report, 1-37.
Virginia Commission on Youth. (2003). Collection of evidence-based treatment modalities for children and adolescents with mental health treatment needs. Author. House Document No. 9.