Evidence-based treatment

Ever had a friend say something like:

“I went to see a counsellor, but it didn’t work … all I did was talk.”

This is a common misconception about the treatment process.

Talking about what you are thinking and feeling is definitely a part of most therapy. For some people, having someone listen is enough to make them feel better. But there are times when you may also need practical strategies and skills to combat the challenges you’re facing.

There are a variety of proven treatment options that can help manage a variety of mental health issues effectively.

When you’re looking for the right health professional for you, it's important to consider whether the counsellor or therapist uses evidence-based treatment approaches.

What are evidence-based treatment approaches?

Evidence-based treatments are types of therapy that have scientific proof in helping people manage certain issues. For example, these types of treatments may be able to:

teach you ways to challenge and change negative thoughts
lift your mood
calm your body down and help you relax
help you put troubling thoughts to rest
show you strategies to improve your relationships
help you reduce unhelpful coping methods such as drinking too much.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Depression

Anxiety

Medication

In some cases, medication can boost the effects of evidence-based therapy and help make life seem more manageable.

There are pros and cons when taking medication to manage your mental health symptoms, and it’s a personal decision that should be made with the advice of a trusted team of health professionals. You should talk to your GP if you would like to discuss medication options.

What to expect from your treating clinician

A vital part of the treatment process is the initial clinical assessment and diagnosis before treatment.

This part of the process should be managed by an experienced mental health professional— someone trained in the treatment of psychopathology. For most people, the first part of the assessment and diagnosis is completed by a GP.
Many people see a GP initially so that they can be put on a mental health care plan through Medicare.
A mental health care plan can subsidise the cost of psychological treatment appointments, which can be helpful when ongoing treatment is needed over the course of a year.
Speak with your doctor or find out more about mental health care plans here
In any initial assessment, you’ll be asked about your current symptoms, your psychological history, any important family history, medical conditions, drug and alcohol use, and any trauma or significant life events. The more honest you are with your answers, the more effective the initial assessment will be.

Treatment options

Your GP is a good place to start talking about what you are experiencing. Your GP can assist with a referral to an appropriate health professional.

Current and former Victoria Police employees and their immediate family members can also access free, confidential counselling through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and The Police Association Victoria.

Acacia Connection Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Call: 1300 364 273
The Police Association Victoria
Call: (03) 9468 2600

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