The chemical assessment is a structured, two-way interview between a therapist and the person being assessment. The purpose of the questioning is for the therapist to get a better understating of a person’s alcohol and drug use history, and potential problems a person may be experienced due to his or her use.
Each chemical assessment will be conducted slightly different from one therapist to the next. However, most will inquire on a variety of life domains. Here is a list of the common domains and potential questions:
Medical History
Do you have any current medical concerns? Do you have a health care provider? When was your most recent appointment? What concerns were identified? What are your current medications?
Substance Use History
How often do you use alcohol? Have you ever used marijuana or other non-prescribed drugs? If so, tell me about the frequency and amount of use over the past year? Have you ever been to detox? Do you smoke tobacco products?
Mental Health
Did you experience abuse or neglect growing up? Is there a family history of drug problems or alcoholism? When was the last time that you had significant problems with depression, anxiety, paying attention, or sleep disruption? Do you have a history of head injuries? Where you ever in the military? Have you ever been prescribed mental health medication?
Living environment
Can you tell me ho you live with? Is alcohol or drugs readily available in your home? Do you have roommates? If so, do your roommates have a history of alcohol misuse or drug abuse? Any plans to move in the foreseeable future?
Day-to-day life
What keeps you busy day-to-day? Are you employed or in school? Do you have hobbies? Are you involved in regular exercise?
Addiction Symptoms
Do you experience alcohol or drug cravings? Do you drink or use more than intended? Are you having a hard time controlling your substance use? Do you feel you need help in quitting or moderating your use? Do you drink or use more than intended or planned?
Oftentimes, the therapist will use aids during the chemical assessment such as the Drug Use Questionnaire (DAST-10).
It is important to select a highly trained therapist to conduct the chemical assessment to insure you are not misdiagnosed. One excellent assessor is Michael with Avitity Health, call (612) 249-3656 to schedule a videoconference or in-person meeting.
The following articles have been written to provide general chemical assessment information. Please note that these articles do not constitute professional advice. If specific advice is needed, please contact a medical professional that is qualified to assist.
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