Implementing evidence-based practices for persons with severe mental illnesses

Extensive empirical research, summarized in several reviews and codified in practice guidelines, recommendations, and algorithms, demonstrates that se veral pharmacological and psychosocial interventions are effective in impro ving the lives of persons with severe mental illnesses. Yet the practices v alidated by research are not widely offered in routine mental health practi ce settings. hs part of an effort to promote the implementation of evidence -based practice, the authors summarize perspectives on how best to change a nd sustain effective practice from the research literature and from the exp eriences of administrators, clinicians, family advocates, and services rese archers. They describe an implementation plan for evidence-based practices based on the use of toolkits to promote the consistent delivery of such pra ctices. The toolkits will include integrated written material, Web-based re sources, training experiences, and consultation opportunities. Special mate rials will address the concerns of mental health authorities (funders), adm inistrators of provider organizations, clinicians, and consumers and their families.