What is a Substance Abuse Evaluation?

4.6_AlcoholScreeningDay_Blog.png

Being ordered, or told, to get an evaluation, whether it be for substance use, mental health, or both, can be uncomfortable, as is the idea of being “evaluated” at all. If someone has been recommended or referred for a substance use or co-occurring evaluation, they may have some things to consider, like, “What is that?” or “Whoa, how did I get here?” or even “What is this going to be like?.” 

At Stepping Stones in Lincoln, NE, our experienced, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapists are here to help clients through any questions and discomfort they may experience during the substance use evaluation process. We understand that clients may have never had a substance use evaluation before. The goal of a substance use evaluation is to evaluate the symptoms and behaviors of clients and to determine if there is an underlying issue creating symptoms of substance use. Underlying issues or co-occurring disorders usually contribute significantly to behaviors that lead up to someone being referred for a substance use evaluation. Once the underlying issues are identified, we can begin to help clients on their path to recovery.

During an evaluation at Stepping Stones in Lincoln, NE, our counselors Keri Nider, LADC, LIMHP, and Shannon Miller, LADC, PLMHP, are dedicated to helping clients be as comfortable as possible. We have created a relaxing environment, and are experienced clinicians who understand that every person is an individual – not one-size-fits-all, and we are committed to meeting clients where they are without judgment. We will walk our clients through the process, be open and upfront about the information we are gathering, and discuss our final recommendations once the evaluation is complete.

The Steps:

  1. A need is personally recognized by the client and/or a person is ordered by courts or treatment facilities to obtain a substance use evaluation.

  2. Understand insurance coverage. Some insurances will not cover evaluations. We have a self-pay discount available to be paid at the time of services at Stepping Stones in Lincoln, NE.

  3. Make an appointment with Shannon or Keri and plan for the substance use evaluation to take about 2 hours.

  4. Come in for the evaluation. Or if necessary, we have Telehealth services available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  5. Plan on hearing back from us in a week or two with a completed substance use evaluation. Evaluations will be submitted to whomever has ordered the evaluation. We will discuss recommendations with clients as allowed by the payor or courts.

So, if the day comes that you feel like you need an evaluation or have been ordered to get one by a third party, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Stepping Stones.  We are happy to help you through this process.

Call 402-483-4571 to schedule an appointment with Keri Nider, LADC, LIMHP, or Shannon Miller, LADC, PLMHP, our licensed Drug and Alcohol Therapists at Stepping Stones in Lincoln, Nebraska. 

Guest User