Most people don’t think about drug and alcohol evaluations often, but this professional assessment is a standard process at most rehab centers. Drug and alcohol evaluations can also be critical for individuals arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The good news is this type of evaluation process can help people determine the best course of treatment for substance use challenges.
A drug and alcohol evaluation is a professional assessment of an individual's drug and alcohol use. The evaluation usually includes a review of the person's drug and alcohol use history, as well as a discussion of their current substance use. They may also ask about their family history, mental health, and other factors that could contribute to substance abuse.
The goal of the evaluation is to determine if the person has an addiction problem. Once the clinician has gathered all the information needed, they will decide whether the person has a problem with drugs or alcohol. If so, the clinician will develop a treatment plan to help the individual overcome their addiction.
Drug and alcohol evaluations typically take place in two parts. Initially, the evaluator screens for potential problems by asking specific questions. If the responses indicate a substance use disorder, the evaluator’s next step is to determine the nature of the problem and the appropriate treatment.
Most drug or alcohol assessments generally take 60-90 minutes. During that time, a certified addiction specialist will take an in-depth look at your situation and provide answers to any questions you may have. The process typically includes:
Drug and alcohol evaluations also involve answering questions regarding:
Generally, the questions asked focus on individuals’ history of drug use, current use, and opinions on drug legalization. By asking these questions, evaluators can better understand individuals’ relationships with drugs and alcohol.
Some of the most common questions asked include:
Screenings and assessments help determine your substance use patterns to determine if you may have an addiction problem that needs treatment. The most common substance abuse screenings include:
If you feel like you or someone you love might benefit from a drug and alcohol evaluation, we encourage you to reach out for help. The professionals at our drug and alcohol rehab center in Massachusetts are more than happy to answer any questions you have about the evaluation process, what comes next, and how we can help make your road to recovery as smooth as possible. Contact us today if you’re ready to make a change — we’re here to support you every step of the way.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/img-ed-480x572.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Reviewed by Ed Lepage, Executive Director
Ed Lepage completed the drug and alcohol certificate program at the University of Massachusetts Boston and has been working in the substance abuse dependency field for the past seven years. He has also worked extensively in peer recovery-based programs offering “real-world experience” to those that suffer from substance use dependency. Full Bio [/author_info] [/author]
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