A substance use assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a licensed counselor to determine an individual's level of substance use and the impact it has on their life. The assessment typically involves a series of questions about the individual's substance use history, mental health, and social support system. Based on the results of the assessment, the counselor will develop a personalized treatment plan to help the individual addiction and achieve long-term recovery. We are located in Vancouver.
What should I do if one of my employees are using drugs?
When an employee in a safety-critical role is suspected of substance use or intoxication at work, the employer is required to send him or her for biological drug testing (i.e., testing the urine, blood, saliva or hair). The employee goes to a collection site and provides a biological sample, which is sent to a lab for analysis. If the employee fails the drug test, he or she is required to meet with a SAP for an in-depth interview. The SAP assesses the degree of severity of the employee’s substance use issue, the appropriate treatment options and the trajectory of recovery and eventual return to safety-critical work.
What is a Substance use assessment?
A substance use assessment is a face-to-face clinical assessment of an individual to determine what exactly they need to resolve their problems associated with alcohol or drug use. Face to face is mandatory because this may offer important physical cues vital to the evaluation process. This may include the following: tremors, needle marks, dilated pupils, exaggerated movements, yellow eyes, glazed or bloodshot eyes, lack of eye contact, a physical slowdown or hyperactivity, appearance, posture, carriage, and ability to communicate in person.
What is a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)?
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a person tasked to evaluate employees who have tested positive and require a return-to-duty process. A SAP also recommends possible treatment, education, follow-up drug testing and an aftercare plan for such employees.
An enormous responsibility falls on the shoulder of an SAP. His or her assessment and recommendation are the very factors that an employer considers when deciding on whether an employee deserves to perform his safety-sensitive job or not. Making the wrong recommendation could lead to devastating consequences.
A Substance Abuse Professional does not represent or promote the employee or employer as his job is to ensure and guarantee public safety by giving out the correct recommendations appropriate to the violation done by the employee in question.
How much does this service cost?
Our cost of this service includes the initial assessment, report to the employer and follow up session. In some cases, your workplace’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may cover SAP fees. Ask your employer for details. Please call for us for a free consultation and more information.
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