Commentary - Evidence based Treatment

MSN Health and Fitness section recently had a report entitled Beyond 12 Steps.

The author, Mia Szalavits, poses the question, 'how do you find evidence-based addiction and alcoholism treatment for yourself or a loved one instead of, or in addition to,12 step approaches?'

I agree with this guide and am encouraged to see worthwhile information available in the media regarding treatment and care for people with alcohol and drug addictions. As an addiction specialist and licensed psychotherapist, I see the amazing results in our program with this combination of treatment approaches.

Here are the five dos and five do not's as the best guide to treatment:

1. Do start your search for treatment with full psychological or psychiatric evaluation from and M.D. psychiatrist or a Ph.D. psychologist.

2. Do look for therapists who use empirically supported or evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy or motivational enhancement therapy.

3. Do make sure you feel safe and understood by the therapist or treatment approach you choose.

4. Do get as much social support as possible, and do not limit your search to traditional support groups.

5. Do consider the use of anti-addiction medications.

6. Do not accept treatment that is confrontational, humiliating or degrading.

7. Do not think a formal intervention, in which family members confront the addict about his or her problem is the only way to help.

8. Do not assume inpatient treatment is superior to outpatient treatment.

9. Do not use a facility for troubled teens that treats multiple disorders with a one-size-fits-all approach.

10. Do not give up.

This handy guide to locating treatment for yourself or a loved one is essential. Thanks MSN for putting this online!


Judy Saalinger, Co-Owner and Clinical Director
Lasting Recovery