Table 2 Behavioural competencies requiring knowledge and use of EBP (Used with permission[4])

Adaptability/Flexibility

Willingly adjust one’s approach to meet the demands of constantly changing conditions, situations and people and to work effectively in difficult or ambiguous situations

Analytical Thinking and Decision Making

Gather, synthesize and evaluate information to determine possible alternatives and outcomes and make well-informed, timely decisions. Includes critical thinking and reasoning skills.

Continuous Learning

Identify and pursue learning opportunities to enhance one’s professional performance and development and the effective delivery of high-quality programs and services.

Creativity and Innovation

Using evidence-based practices in innovative and creative ways to initiate both effective new ways of working and advances in the understanding of the field of practice. Innovation and creativity are achieved in translating research into practice to optimize improvements in service delivery and professional practice.

Developing Others

Facilitate and motivate sustained learning and create opportunities and resources, as well as promote and respect others’ needs for ownership of learning outcomes. Includes creation of a continuous learning environment that fosters positive growth in both work and public contexts among peers, clients, client families, communities, and other groups (recipients).

Effective Communication

Articulates both verbally and in writing across a range of technologies in a manner that builds trust, respect and credibility and that ensures the message is received and understood by the audience. Includes active listening skills and congruent non-verbal communication.

Self Care

Deliberately and continuously apply professional and personal self care principles to oneself and, at times, others to sustain optimal productivity while maintaining physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health.

Leadership

Help others achieve excellent results and create enthusiasm for a shared vision and mission, even in the face of critical debate

Ethical Conduct and Professionalism

Provide professional services according to the principles and values of integrity, competence, responsibility, respect, and trust to safeguard both self and others. Includes the development of professionalism and ethical behavior in self and others (individuals, groups, organizations, communities).

Self Motivation and Drive

Remain motivated and focused on a goal until the best possible results are achieved, with both passion for making a difference in the substance abuse field and persistence despite confronting obstacles, resistance and setbacks.

Client-Centred Change

Enhance, facilitate, support, empower and otherwise increase client motivation for positive change. Positive change is achieved by involving the client actively in the change process and encouraging the client to take responsibility for outcomes he or she achieves. Clients may be individuals, groups, communities and organizations.

Client Service Orientation

Provide service excellence to clients (which can include individuals, groups, communities and organizations). Includes making a commitment to serve clients focusing one’s efforts on discovering and meeting client’s needs within personal, professional and organizational capacities and boundaries.