Evidence-Based Interventions (EBI) are an important tool for any clinical psychologist. EBIs are therapeutic practices that have been empirically proven to be effective in treating at least one condition. Due to the large number of EBIs and the training required to properly implement them many clinicians choose to specialize in just a few. Here’s a look at a few of the EBIs covered across MSP’s programs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of, if not the most, common types of EBI. As the name would suggest CBT combines the therapeutic approaches of cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. CBT is solution-focused and works to modify irrational thoughts and behaviors. While it is most often associated with anxiety and depression, CBT can be used in the treatment of a wide variety of mental and physical health disorders including PTSD, OCD, addiction, chronic pain, and more. Learn more about CBT here.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is another EBI that integrates aspects of cognitive and behavioral therapies. DBT often involves four types of sessions: a pre-assessment, individual therapy, group skills training, and crisis coaching. In skills training, clients work on the skills of mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation. DBT is most commonly used in the treatment of personality disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Learn more about DBT here.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines cognitive therapy with the practices of meditation and mindfulness. Since MBCT is effective at helping individuals manage their thoughts, moods, and emotions it was developed for use in cases of chronic and recurrent depression. Learn more about MBCT here.
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) recognizes the role emotion plays in our lives and works to promote awareness, acceptance, expression, utilization, and regulation of these emotions. Clinicians who use EFT will also work with their clients to transform unhelpful and/or negative emotions. EFT is typically used in couples and family therapy but can also be effective in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Learn more about EFT here.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an EBI that focuses on the real-time acceptance of one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment. ACT is different from many other EBIs in that it does not view unwanted emotions as a problem but rather as a part of life. It is used to treat a variety of conditions including phobias, stress, and substance abuse. Learn more about ACT here.
Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT) blends a variety of other therapeutic approaches to help individuals develop healthy, strong relationships which benefit their overall emotional well-being. It is used when a client the clients is having distress in relationships (romantic, familial, professional, etc). Learn more about RCT here.
