ADOLESCENT ASSESSMENT PACKAGE

If you are considering the need for a substance abuse assessment for your teen, we know that this can be a confusing and often overwhelming time for you. We have put together the following items to help you understand more about the assessment process. The following links will take you through a step-by- step presentation of valuable information that will add to the effectiveness of your assessment experience if you know this ahead of time.

1. The Imagine Model Assessment Protocol
2. Community Awareness Night
3. 3 Rules of Thumb
4. How to Schedule an Assessment

1. The Imagine Model Assessment Protocol

Imagine uses a specific format for assessment that is designed for maximum effectiveness, accuracy, and efficiency. The IMAP process includes

1. Assessment      

The counselor will first meet with the parents to obtain background information. The counselor then meets with the client and completes a thorough psycho-social history and substance abuse history. Urine Drug Screen and/or SASSI test may or may not be utilized at this time.

2. Education           

We take the time to teach the client what it is they are being assessed for. This means presenting information on what it means to have a “problem”, or examining the difference between social use and abuse. This is perhaps the most critical stage in adolescent substance abuse assessment; if a client is simply told they must be admitted to substance abuse treatment because of the score on their assessment test- with no explanation- it is understandable that the client will be angry and resistant. We make the effort to explain objectively to the client, prior to discussing their particular case, that chemical dependency is a diagnosable illness with an identified protocol for treatment. Taking the time to educate the client drastically improves the effectiveness of the assessment as the process continues.

3. Intervention     

We then look at their case. If they meet criteria for needing treatment, we help them understand this and review treatment options. In layman’s terms, this basically boils down to “inpatient” or “outpatient” (more specifically- residential treatment or intensive outpatient), and we review with the client how this determination is made. If substance abuse treatment is not indicated, we will help the client understand the need for any alternative recommendations that may be given.

4. Referral and Diversion  
Resistance is typical and understandable in the assessment process. Treatment at Imagine provides some level of removing resistance, simply by the relaxed, “non-hospitable” nature of the environment and program. By effective use of outside leverage, or helping parents be firm in following the recommendations, we are often able to help a client be open and receptive to treatment. “Diversion” means being able to avoid the need for higher level of care due to lowered resistance and greater willingness on the part of the client as a result of this process.

2. “If I Only Knew Then ... What I Know Now!”

In October, 2007, Imagine hosted a Community Awareness Night: If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now which was presented by P.O.R.T. (Imagine’s support group for Parents Of Recovering Teens). The purpose was to provide information to the community from the perspective of those who have been through the process of discovering their child had a drug problem and getting help. A panel of speakers presented information about teen substance abuse, assessment, and treatment. Speakers included both professionals and individuals who shared their personal experience.

Please listen to the following talks prior to your assessment, as the information presented will address some typical questions that come up through the assessment process.

Jim Savage, LCDC, Director, Imagine Porgrams
Sabina Stern LCDC, LMSW, Program Director, Collin County Substance Abuse
The Honorable John Payton.
Parent of a Recovering Teen: If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now

3. Three Rules of Thumb

4. Schedule an appointment

1. Call the Imagine office to schedule an appointment for assessment.

2.  Appointments are 2 hours. The client must be accompanied by a parent (preferably both parents).

3. Appointments are scheduled during regular daytime hours. The latest they can be scheduled is 3pm. Often parents don’t want their child to miss school, but please recognize the potential gravity of the situation, and regard this as you would any other serious medical issue.