Discussion: Addictions Screening and Assessment Tools Versus Clinical Assessments

A client is typically referred to an addiction professional with myriad problems because addictions either directly or indirectly cause the problems, or the addiction is a byproduct of the problem. If clinical assessments provide an overview of a client’s background and situation, is a specific addictions assessment necessary? If an addictions assessment shows a client with depression and anxiety, is a clinical assessment necessary?

For this Discussion, you consider differences between use of addictions assessment tools and clinical assessment tools and the rationale behind each approach.

To prepare:

Review the Learning Resources, particularly the following articles:

• “Brief Intervention in College Settings”
• “Assessing Addiction: Concepts and Instruments”

Post your response to the following:

How might the use of addictions assessment tools differ from the use of clinical assessment tools? Include in your response references to unique administration and client considerations.