Chemical Dependency Evaluations, Treatment and Consultation
Evaluations
I provide several different types of Chemical Dependency (CD) Evaluations. For the client who is curious to find out whether or not they have a problem, I can offer you an abbreviated assessment. This entails a diagnostic interview and possibly testing. The results are a summary of my observations and insights, substance abuse counseling, or referral for treatment if necessary.
A more comprehensive CD evaluation would be one that is required by the courts after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) or arrest for other substance related incident. These evaluations include two hours or more of diagnostic interview, testing, a review of your driving abstract, criminal history and other relevant records. A short written report for the court or probation is provided.
The most comprehensive evaluation I offer is a forensic CD evaluation. This evaluation is generally requested by court order as part of a divorce proceeding or custody dispute. Individuals or their attorneys may contact me to set up an initial appointment. This evaluation includes three to five hours of interviews, in person or telephone interviews with collateral contacts (such as partners, therapists, friends, family), and a review of records including court declarations, personal statements, prior evaluations, drivers abstract and criminal history. A comprehensive written report is issued at the end of the evaluation.
Men will always be mad, and those who think they can cure them are the maddest of all.
— Voltaire
Consultation
An additional service I provide for individuals and families is consultation for substance use, gambling and other non-substance related addictions. During these consultations we may discuss the process of addiction, setting limits and boundaries, healthy life style choices or other topics tailored to the individual’s needs. Family and friends are also invited to participate in consultations with or without the individual of concern. During family consultation we can discuss signs and symptoms of addiction, relationship difficulties and decision making.
Attorneys and other professionals may request consultations regarding addiction issues, evaluations, expert witness testimony and other forensic matters.
Treatment
Some individuals are unsure of whether or not they have a substance or non-substance related problem. Other individuals are aware of needing help. Treatment for addictions begins with a clinical assessment. We explore the individual’s history, current behavior and the consequences of the behavior. We examine how the problem behavior is affecting the individual’s relationships and work functioning, health and legal involvement. After one to three sessions we will discuss treatment recommendations and a course of treatment. Treatment itself may entail a variety of approaches. Sessions may focus on providing education regarding addictions, therapeutic addiction counseling and relapse prevention.