Review of: Evidence-Based Mental Health Practices

• Published in: Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal Vol. 30; no. 1; pp. 79 - 80
• Main Author: Spagnolo, Amy B.
• Format: Journal Article Book Review
• Language: English
• Published: Boston University, Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation 2006; International Association of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Services, Boston University
• Subjects: Client Attitudes; Decision Making; Evidence Based Practice; Human; Mental Disorders; Mental Health; Mental Health Programs; Mental Health Services
• ISSN: 1095-158X; 1559-3126
• DOI: 10.1037/h0094610

Reviews the book, Evidence-Based Mental Health Practices edited by Robert E. Drake, Matthew R. Merrens, David W. Lynde (see record 2005-04045-000). This is one of the few texts available on evidence-based practice in mental health. It is also one of the most critically thought out texts I have read. The book spends considerable time describing the historical context of the emergence of evidence-based practices and provides several useful comparisons to physical medicine and science when arguing the utility of an evidence- based decision making process. It also highlights, in many sections, the importance of clinical decision making as well as consumer preference and choice when implementing EBPs. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in a comprehensive review of the evolution, rationale, and implementation of evidence-based practice. The structure of this book follows a logical sequence starting with the prologue which highlights one of the editor's accounts of his struggles as a practitioner and later as a mental health program administrator. This text focuses on clinical decision making, recovery, and consumer preference and choice, reminding the reader of how closely each of the six evidence-based practices incorporate these important factors. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)