Counselors and Resources, Columbia Treatment CenterIf you or a loved one are having difficulty with alcohol or other drugs, we will schedule a substance abuse evaluation for you.  This evaluation will be a one-on-one session with a counselor and will typically take about 45 minutes to an hour.  The purpose of the session is to see what’s going on with you and to see how we can best help in your current situation.

During the evaluation, the counselor will ask you questions regarding the reason you are coming to CTC, your legal history (if any), substance use history, questions about your family, how you are doing at work or school, etc.

At that visit, your counselor will let you know if an education or treatment program is recommended, and will provide you with options of how you can complete your program.

About Evaluations / Assessments

Your first visit is called your evaluation.

Preparation

Please download and complete the appropriate paperwork prior to your appointment. If you have questions or confusion about any items in particular, leave those items blank and we will discuss it together.

Arrive ten minutes prior to your appointment if your paperwork is complete. If you haven’t completed your paperwork, please arrive thirty minutes prior to your appointment.

Forms of Payment

Accepted forms of payment are cash, check, cashier’s check, and credit cards (with the exception of American Express). There is a 2% fee when payment is made with a credit card.

What To Bring To The Evaluation
  1. Completed paperwork downloaded from our website.
  2. Court/organization documents and requirements, if applicable.
  3. Name and all contact information for referring person or organization.
  4. A written list of all medications you are prescribed including the name and phone number of the prescriber.
  5. A copy of a government-issued ID such as a driver’s license.
  6. Anything else you think might be important.
What To Expect During The Evaluation Interview

Expect to meet one-on-one with a counselor for approximately fifty minutes to discuss your situation. Those who have less complicated situations may take less time. More complicated situations may need extra time or an additional follow-up meeting. The counselor will discuss the details of the purpose of your visit and any relevant history. The counselor will gather other specific information about your life in order to paint an accurate description of your individual situation. At the end of the evaluation, the counselor will make a recommendation based on your clinical and legal needs.

Who Am I Meeting With?

You are paired with a counselor who can specifically meet your needs. From the moment you call to schedule your appointment you are matched based on the initial details you provide. All of our counselors have areas of expertise and knowledge that are leveraged during the evaluation process to ensure the best level of care for you.

Where Does My Evaluation Go?

Depending on your situation, your evaluation may not go anywhere. If you are involved in a legal proceeding, it is likely your evaluation needs to go to an attorney. We are unable to release your evaluation to anyone without a written release of information provided by you.

The Importance Of Honesty

It is important to be open and honest during the evaluation process. We understand that often times there is shame and guilt associated with the reasons you came through our doors. We are not here to cast blame or judgment but are here to collect information and make recommendations. Without honesty, we are unable to do so. It can be scary to discuss details of your incident prior to a court case;  we are on your side and want to help. The information gathered during the evaluation is used to make an appropriate recommendation for you or your loved one.