Substance Abuser   

First and foremost, trust is established. Then an authentic assessment is possible. The assessment process can be accomplished in a session or two, or may possibly take longer.  The primary variable is the client's ability to be forthright in what is going on. The number one symptom of the disease of addiction is denial, meaning gathering accurate information can be challenging.  Important aspects of this process are exploring one's drug history, researching family history, and evaluating mental health status.

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Testing may be used during this process.  There are a battery of testing tools available, both for substance abuse and mental health evaluation.  Drug and alcohol screens are also available as needed.

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Family Member/Loved One

The assessment is very similar to that used with the addict, however it leans into the person's readiness to change.  Often those impacted by substance abuse have also created coping skills very comfortable and seemingly useful to them.  People are reluctant to "let go" of habits, as they have become "life supporting."  This is a time of challenging current tools and re-evaluating their true value.  Delving into a counseling experience can be initially overwhelming, rapport and trust must be established.