Evidenced-Based Practices in Resolve Partial Hospitalization Programs (11/2/2011)

Nicole Baker, Treatment Coordinator, LPC, BCBA

            Evidenced-based practices ensure a high quality of service for children and families in the Resolve Behavioral Health Services school-based Partial Hospitalization Programs. Evidenced-based practices are method- and philosophy-combined, supported by research, guiding the clinical practices of Mental Health Treatment Specialists, Management Assistants, and Treatment Coordinators in the twenty-three school-based partial programs. 

A child’s medical condition is assessed and identified by the program Psychiatrist within the first five treatment days and a treatment plan is developed, which incorporates evidenced-based interventions developed with the child and family. Recovery is maximized because interventions for treatment are grounded in research that supports positive outcomes. For example, a child with a diagnosis of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder may receive Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, patient and family psychiatric education, and Stress Inoculation Therapy, all of which are evidenced-based interventions identified by the American Psychiatric Association.   The use of evidenced-based practices also enhances the therapist’s role as a member of the interdisciplinary team since these practices are widely shared by other disciplines. 

Evidenced-based practices are to be acknowledged as a principle that guides clinical practices through the balance of empirical evidence, clinician expertise, and child/family-centered decision making. Through the adoption of evidenced-based practices in programming, the Resolve Behavioral Health Services school-based Partial Hospitalization Program ensures optimal recovery for children and families, a high quality clinical care which is focused on continual improvement.