Harmonizing Science and Service:
The Synergy of Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence in Recovery
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In the realm of recovery and peer support, the terms "evidence-based practice" (EBP) and "practice-based evidence"(PBE) are often used and described as important for effective support, yet their meanings and the implications of each term can be difficult to grasp. One of the goals of the Peer Recovery Center of Excellence (PRCoE) Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence focus area is to demystify these concepts and illuminate how they form the backbone of our efforts to enhance recovery support services. Another goal is to assist efforts to strengthen peer support (an evidence-based practice) by educating our community of peer support workers, recovery community organizations, people in recovery, and stakeholders about these approaches.
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Understanding Evidence-Based Practice
At its core, evidence-based practice (EBP) is about making choices in the delivery of recovery support services based on the best research evidence available. This approach isn't about sidelining personal experience or reducing recovery support to a series of scientific studies; it's about enhancing support by integrating strategies that have been effective over and over again when studied by researchers. EBPs have been tested, researched, and shown to be effective through scientific methods. Imagine you're navigating a forest; EBP is like a compass crafted from years of exploration and study, pointing you in the direction that has safely guided many before you. A compass always points north and helps people find their way in areas they are not familiar with, just like EBPs can guide how we provide services. These practices are reliable tools for supporting peers and facilitating recovery because they are backed by data showing that they work.
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Valuing Practice-Based Evidence
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On the other hand, practice-based evidence (PBE) values the knowledge and insights gained directly from the lived experiences of individuals and communities. From this perspective, the wisdom gained from real-life situations are just as important as data from controlled studies. To continue with our forest analogy, PBE is like the wisdom of the forest itself, the collective knowledge that comes
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from the lived experiences of those navigating their recovery journeys. It is equally important, as it reflects the real-world application of recovery strategies that resonate with individuals' unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal beliefs. It's innovative, adaptable, and deeply rooted in the specific context and needs of the community it serves. PBE respects and elevates practices developed within communities, offering a personalized touch to recovery support that resonates on a deeper level.
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The Role of PRCoE in Bridging Theory and Practice
The Peer Recovery Center of Excellence doesn't just advocate for the application of these approaches in isolation. Instead, we see the immense value in their integration. Here's how we aim to bridge the gap and support our community through the PRCoE Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence focus area initiatives:
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Promoting Access to Research and Best Practices: We provide resources and training on the latest evidence-based practices, ensuring that recovery support workers have access to strategies that are proven to be effective.
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Offering Tailored Technical Assistance (TA): Understanding that each recovery journey is unique, we offer customized support to help implement and adapt evidence-based practices to meet individual and community needs effectively. For more information about TA see our recent newsletter article that describes TA, or visit our product page and resource library on the PRCoE website for examples. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you can request it through our ‘request TA’ link on the website.
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Highlighting and Sharing Practice-Based Successes: Recognizing the power of community-developed strategies, we facilitate the sharing of these practices in stakeholder meetings, and highlight them in our newsletter and resource library. It is our intention to elevate PBE to the broader recovery support community. Stay tuned- this is an exciting area of future development for the The Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence team!
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Fostering Collaboration and Networking: Our Organizational Stakeholders network connects individuals and organizations to build a vibrant community of practice where knowledge, experiences, and resources can be shared freely, enriching the support provided to those in recovery.
Combining evidence-based practice with practice-based evidence represents a comprehensive approach to recovery support services, emphasizing the importance of both scientific research and the nuanced understanding of individual and community needs. The Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence focus area at the PRCoE is dedicated to facilitating access to these resources, offering technical assistance, and promoting a collaborative environment for sharing successful strategies and innovations.
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How We Can Help You
How does the Peer Recovery Center of Excellence (PRCoE) intertwine EBP and PBE? Think of us as guides who integrate the tools that are available to guide you on your journey- we combine the precision of the compass with the wisdom of the forest to support your peer support efforts. Our role is to share both scientifically supported practices and lived experience gained from the community with you, enhancing your toolkit as peer support workers and organizations aiding recovery.
Consider us your partners in bridging the gap between what's known to work (EBP) and what's shown to work in your communities (PBE). We bring forth training, share knowledge, and offer guidance that respects and values the unique context of each recovery experience. The invitation to engage with the Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence focus area is open to all within the recovery support ecosystem. Whether you're seeking the latest in evidence-based interventions, looking to share your own successful strategies, or in need of assistance to navigate the complexities of recovery support, we can help! Our mission is to empower you with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to enhance the effectiveness and reach of your efforts in peer recovery support. To request technical assistance or to simply start a dialogue about how we can support you, please reach out! Whether you're looking to refine your approach, expand your skillset, or explore new recovery strategies, the EBP and PBE focus area is your resource hub.
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Acknowledgement of support: I would like to express gratitude to Shannon Roberts for providing insightful feedback on multiple drafts of this work. Additionally, OpenAI's ChatGPT was utilized as a research and writing assistant for portions of this article, showcasing the intersection of AI technology and creative content development.
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Funding for this initiative was made possible by grant no. 1H79TI083022 from SAMHSA. The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
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