Alcohol and Drug Evaluation

Purpose of an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation

The primary purpose of an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation (sometimes referred to as a Substance Abuse Evaluation for Non-DUI clients) is to comprehensively assess the symptoms present in the individual and consequently determine whether these constitute an addictive disease and/or co-occurring psychiatric disorder. Alcohol and Drug Evaluations are often court-ordered and/or recommended by a criminal defense attorney or probation office for alcohol or drug-related charges.

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Questions asked during a substance abuse

Your substance use history

Patterns around current drug and alcohol use

Physical health and medical issues

Family history of substance abuse

Your mental health

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Purpose of an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation?

The primary purpose of an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation (sometimes referred to as a Substance Abuse Evaluation for Non-DUI clients) is to comprehensively assess the symptoms present in the individual and consequently determine whether these constitute an addictive disease and/or co-occurring psychiatric disorder.

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An Alcohol and Drug evaluation is an in-depth look into the severity of an individual’s substance use with the purpose of making a diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. An alcohol and drug evaluation, sometimes referred to as a Substance Abuse Assessment looks into the type of substance, the dosage, and the frequency of using a substance. You can think of an alcohol and drug evaluation as a one on one interview between you and a licensed therapist or a doctor.

There are many situations in which a court can order you to participate in a drug and alcohol evaluation. Because substance abuse and drug and alcohol dependence are often associated with certain criminal behaviors, alcohol and drug evaluations can help court officials make final decisions in a court case.

  • Your substance use history
  • Family history of substance abuse
  • Patterns around current drug and alcohol use
  • Your mental health
  • Physical health and medical issues

After an Alcohol and Drug Evaluation, your evaluator will go over their findings and recommendations for treatment regarding your substance use, if any. If a drug and alcohol assessment determines you have a substance use disorder, what happens next depends on your situation. For example, if the evaluation was court-ordered, the judge may require you to participate and complete all recommended treatments before closing your case.

This procedure is usually conducted by licensed and trained professionals specializing in understanding human behavior. Social workers, psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, doctors, and psychologists are some examples, to name a few.