Treatment service providers that adhere to evidence-based practices and treatments—those that have been studied and scientifically proven to be effective at reducing symptoms related to substance use and mental health disorders—realize better outcomes. Treatment for people with substance use disorders is determined through a screening and assessment process. The appropriate level of care is determined and ranges from outpatient services to inpatient services. Individual treatment plans are also developed based on the assessments. Plans may include various types of individual, family, or group counseling services; medication; and treatment for co-occurring disorders. Treatment is typically provided by health care professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
Additional services and supports may be provided by case managers or peers. It is imperative to provide a continuum of evidence-based services to promote the best outcomes for people with behavioral health disorders. Current resources and gaps can be identified through community resource mapping exercises, such as Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) Mapping.