It is very important to fully assess a person at the outset, because it will determine the appropriate course of action and enable me to produce a unique care plan. The person will feel valued and respected throughout. The assessment will evaluate a person’s psychological, spiritual, social and physiological symptoms. This will determine if an addiction is present and to what extent. The assessment will also identify coexisting conditions and underlying issues. The person will also be able to discuss how their problems have been affecting them and their life. The individual will be asked various questions about their presenting problem and life history.

The assessment process is straightforward and designed to be meaningful. It can help the person to make their next step and to begin actively changing their life. Once a full assessment has been carried out, a care or treatment plan can be undertaken.

The assessment can take up to two hours and is normally conducted in a consulting room. The assessment can take place in the home if necessary and appropriate. Parents, carers and relatives may also be involved in this process.

A follow up appointment is made within 48 hours to discuss the treatment options and a written document produced that can be used as the basis for discussing care planning and goals, objectives and next steps.

At the end of the assessment, both the client and myself will be very clear about what needs to happen next.