Undergoing an alcohol and drug evaluation can feel daunting, but understanding the process can make it much more manageable. At AACS Counseling, we aim to provide clear and supportive guidance throughout your evaluation. Here’s what you can expect from start to finish:
Initial Screening
The evaluation process begins with an initial screening. This crucial step ensures that the evaluation aligns with your specific needs. During this stage, our administrative staff will ask preliminary questions to understand the purpose of your assessment. Whether the review is required for legal reasons, by an employer, or for personal insight, the initial screening helps confirm that you are scheduled for the appropriate alcohol and drug evaluation.
Intake Documents
After the initial screening, you will complete a series of intake documents. These forms are designed to gather information about your substance use history, behaviors, and other relevant details. You’ll fill out various questionnaires, including:
● Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST): Assesses issues related to alcohol consumption.
● Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST): Evaluates drug use and its impact on your life.
These standardized tools help us understand the extent of substance use and any associated problems. Additionally, you may be required to complete consent forms and other documents related to your personal history, which are essential for proceeding with the evaluation.
One-on-One Clinical Interview
After completing intake documents, you will have a one-on-one clinical interview with a certified evaluator. This interview includes a Biopsychosocial Assessment, which explores various aspects of your life. During this conversation, the evaluator will examine:
● Biological Factors: Your physical health, substance use history, and genetic predispositions.
● Psychological Factors: Your mental health history, including any psychological or emotional issues you may be experiencing.
● Social Factors: Your social environment, family dynamics, work situation, and support systems.
This thorough examination helps the evaluator understand how substance use affects different areas of your life and provides a holistic view of your situation.
Evaluation Report
After the clinical interview and assessment, the evaluator will prepare a detailed evaluation report. This report includes a summary of findings, recommendations, and conclusions based on the information gathered. The report will outline your assessment results, provide recommendations for treatment or follow-up actions, and offer a detailed account of your substance use and its impact. Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of this process, and the report will be sent to you and any other parties you authorize, provided you sign a release form. This form allows the evaluator to share the report with individuals or entities such as legal representatives or employers.
Reviewing the Report
Receiving and reviewing the evaluation report is an essential step. The report will be delivered to you, and it’s important to review it thoroughly to understand the findings and the recommended next steps. Based on the recommendations provided in the report, you may need to take further actions, such as enrolling in a treatment program or scheduling additional assessments. The recommendations are designed to guide you toward appropriate interventions and support based on your unique situation.
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The alcohol and drug evaluation process at AACS Counseling involves several key steps, from the initial screening to receiving your evaluation report. Each phase is designed to provide a clear assessment of your substance use and its effects on your life. Being prepared and informed can help you approach the evaluation with confidence. Please ask your evaluator for more information if you have any questions or need clarification during the process. For ongoing support and guidance, our team is here to assist you throughout the evaluation process and beyond.
