If you’ve been asked to complete a substance use evaluation, it’s normal to have questions about what to expect. Whether the evaluation is for court, probation, DHHS, or your own personal reasons, understanding the process ahead of time can make it feel a little less overwhelming. A substance use evaluation is an opportunity to take an objective look at your relationship with alcohol or other substances and determine whether treatment, education, or additional support may be appropriate.

What Is a Substance Use Evaluation?

A substance use evaluation is a clinical assessment used to better understand a person’s current and past use of alcohol or other substances. The goal is not to judge or label you, but to gather information about your history, current circumstances, and any concerns that may be present. Based on that information, the evaluator can determine whether any recommendations for treatment, education, or additional support are appropriate.

Why Might Someone Need a Substance Use Evaluation?

There are many reasons someone may be asked to complete a substance use evaluation. Some people seek an evaluation because it has been requested by a court, probation officer, or DHHS, while others choose to complete one because they have questions or concerns about their own substance use.

• Court or legal requirements
• Probation requirements
• DHHS involvement
• Concerns related to alcohol or other substance use
• Personal interest in better understanding your relationship with substances

What Happens During a Substance Use Evaluation?

During the evaluation, you’ll have a conversation with a licensed clinician about your history and current circumstances. You may be asked about your alcohol and substance use, mental and physical health, relationships, work, legal involvement, and other areas of your life that can help provide a fuller picture of your situation.

You may also be asked to complete standardized screening or assessment tools. If there are relevant records or other information available, those may be reviewed as part of the evaluation as well.

The purpose is to gather enough information to make an objective clinical assessment and determine whether any recommendations are appropriate.

How Should I Prepare for a Substance Use Evaluation?

You don’t need to prepare extensively for a substance use evaluation. The most important thing is to be open and honest about your history and current circumstances. An evaluation is most useful when the clinician has an accurate understanding of what is going on.

If your evaluation is related to court, probation, DHHS, or another agency, you may be asked to provide relevant documents or contact information so the evaluator can review additional information when appropriate. If anything specific is needed before your appointment, you’ll be informed ahead of time.

Does a Substance Use Evaluation Automatically Mean I Need Treatment?

No. Completing a substance use evaluation does not automatically mean that treatment will be recommended. The purpose of the evaluation is to assess your individual circumstances and make recommendations based on the information gathered. Depending on the results, recommendations may range from no additional services to education, outpatient support, or a more structured level of treatment.

Recommendations are based on clinical need rather than the reason you were referred for the evaluation.

What Happens After the Evaluation?

After the evaluation is complete, the clinician will review the information gathered and discuss any recommendations with you. Recommendations are individualized and based on your specific circumstances and clinical needs.

If the evaluation was requested for court, probation, DHHS, or another third party, documentation may be provided when appropriate and with your written authorization. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions about the findings and recommendations.

Is a Substance Use Evaluation Confidential?

Substance use evaluations involve private and sensitive information, and confidentiality is an important part of the process. Information from your evaluation is not shared with outside parties without your written authorization, except when disclosure is required or permitted by law.

If your evaluation is being completed for court, probation, DHHS, or another third party, the clinician will explain what information may be shared, with whom, and what authorization is needed before information is released.

Can a Substance Use Evaluation Be Completed Virtually in Maine?

Yes. Substance use evaluations can often be completed virtually through a secure telehealth appointment. This allows adults throughout Maine to complete an evaluation without needing to travel to an office.

Before scheduling, Annah will confirm that a virtual evaluation is appropriate for your circumstances and any requirements associated with the reason for your evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Substance Use Evaluations

How long does a substance use evaluation take?

The length of an evaluation can vary depending on your circumstances and the information that needs to be reviewed. When you schedule your appointment, you’ll be given information about how much time to set aside.

Do I need a referral for a substance use evaluation?

Not necessarily. Some people are referred by a court, probation officer, DHHS, attorney, or another professional, while others choose to schedule an evaluation on their own.

What if I disagree with the recommendations?

You’ll have an opportunity to discuss the findings and recommendations with the clinician and ask questions about how they were determined. The goal is to make recommendations that reflect the information gathered during the evaluation and your individual circumstances.

Looking for a Substance Use Evaluation in Maine?

If you need a substance use evaluation for court, probation, DHHS, or personal reasons, Annah Levasseur, LCSW, LADC, CCS provides independent evaluations for adults throughout Maine. Each evaluation is approached with respect, professionalism, and without judgment, with recommendations based on your individual circumstances.