A drug and alcohol addiction assessment is a process for an addict and or their family to locate the best suitable option for substance abuse treatment. In many situations, the search for drug and alcohol treatment programs can be time-consuming and lengthy, and many families will feel as if they have gotten nowhere. An assessment is done with an addiction counselor, and they will be able to determine what drug treatment is needed and can provide the resources and contact information needed right then and there, as well as help the addict gets admitted into a drug rehab program. In Puerto Rico, there are some drug treatment centers that do offer addiction assessment services for men and women. The assessment helps narrow the search down and provide all the needed drug and alcohol treatment resources required to help an addict become drug and alcohol-free. These services can also help a family locate different family services to help them cope and handle their issues, while their loved one is receiving drug treatment. Drug and alcohol addiction assessment can be a very useful and necessary step for addicts and their families.
What types of treatment options are available after an assessment?
The options can be rather endless in most cases unless very specific treatment options are required; an addict can choose from either an outpatient or inpatient program after their detox and will have options of either short-term or long-term care. The choices for what types of rehabilitation methods used are quite extensive and should be looked at for what the individual needs and wants are of the client.
What's Next?
After receiving a drug and alcohol assessment or evaluation from a qualified professional in Puerto Rico, the next step is arranging rehabilitation. Inpatient long-term drug rehab is the best option, but it depends on the recommendations from the professionals. Generally, detox is the first step, and you or your loved one would make a transition into outpatient, short-term, or long-term drug rehab. Many drug rehab services are available in Puerto Rico. An assessment is a vital part of finding the best help.
Ask a Professional
How does a drug and alcohol assessment help me find the right rehab?
Finding a drug rehab that meets your needs is key to a successful recovery from drugs and alcohol. Since there are so many options, an assessment helps you understand what level of care is needed. Questions asked in an evaluation will help the addiction professional determine the correct type of treatment in terms of rehab type and duration.
I am court-ordered to do a drug and alcohol assessment. What do I do now?
Generally speaking, once ordered by the court to get an assessment done, it is usually up to the individual to ensure this is completed by the time laid out by the judge. Most counties or parishes have local or state organizations that conduct assessments the court accepts. You should set an appointment immediately. Once completed, you should coordinate with the facility that performed the evaluation and the court to ensure they know you have complied with the judge’s orders. This is not legal advice; always speak to your lawyer or public defender to answer legal questions specific to your case.
How soon after an assessment can I receive treatment?
How soon you receive treatment depends on a variety of factors. These include but are not limited to bed availability, court approval, affordability, and willingness. Every individual’s situation is unique, so it is best to speak to a professional regarding the exact timeline between drug assessment and treatment.
Are online or phone assessments as effective as in-person evaluations?
No, when an addiction professional can see the individual, ask questions, and drug test them, they have a more accurate evaluation of the individual’s needs. Many individuals fail to disclose everything that is happening with them, and off-site interviews or questionaries make it easier for a person to downplay their drug use. Ultimately one should always do an assessment that utilizes a drug test as it will provide more accurate information about the current situation.
The questions from Addicted.org's "Ask a Professional" are answered by Michael Leach, CCMA. If you need further clarification on any of the questions above or have any other questions you can contact him directly at M.Leach@Addicted.org.
