Predictors of Use of Evidence-Based Practices for Children and Adolescents in Usual Care

Practice data from 74 therapists providing public mental health services to 519 youth ages 5-19 were examined. Multilevel modeling suggested child and therapist characteristics predicted use of practices derived from the evidence-base (PDEB) and use of practices with minimal evidence support (PMES). Longer episode length predicted greater receipt of PDEB; older youth, males, and youth in out-of-home levels of care were more likely to receive PMES; and youth receiving an evidence-based treatment program were less likely to receive PMES. Professional specialty and theoretical orientation significantly predicted PDEB whereas therapist characteristics did not predict PMES. Implementation implications are discussed.