Beyond Evidence-Based Practice: Nine Ideal Features of a Mental Health Intervention

Objectives: Recognizing the limitations of conventional frameworks for identifying evidence-based interventions, we sought to develop a comprehensive set of criteria that would have practical and policy relevance. Methods: We identify nine ideal attributes of a mental health practice (well defined, reflecting client goals, consistent with societal goals, effective, minimum side effects, positive long-term outcomes, reasonable costs, easy to implement, and adaptable to diverse communities and client subgroups). Using a case study approach, we applied these criteria to the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model of supported employment. Findings: IPS generally satisfies all nine criteria, though the evidence is more limited in some areas. Conclusions: This framework provides a template that could be used to evaluate other social work interventions.