10 Reasons We Need to Assess Substance Use10 Reasons We Need to Assess Substance Use
All Things Substance
Why should mental health therapists assess substance use? Is that really in our scope? My answer is a resounding, Yes. In this episode I go through ten reasons why assessing for substance use is vital to our work and to our client’s well-being.
33:09•24 Jan 2022
Why Assessing Substance Use is Essential for Therapists
“Assessing substance use is vital to our work and our client's wellbeing because substance use can exacerbate problems and push individuals to a place where they need to be involved in care. ”
Ever wondered why substance use should be a key focus in mental health therapy? Betsy Byler, a seasoned therapist and substance abuse counselor, dives into this critical topic on 'All Things Substance'. She passionately argues that assessing for substance use isn't just an optional extra—it’s vital for the well-being of clients. With two out of five people with mental health disorders also grappling with substance use issues, it's clear why this assessment is so crucial.
Betsy breaks down ten compelling reasons why therapists need to ask the right questions about substance use. From understanding how substance use can worsen mental health symptoms to recognizing its role in suicidal thoughts, Betsy covers it all. She also highlights the progressive nature of substance use disorders and the transformative power of thorough assessments in helping clients gain self-awareness.
For therapists, this episode is a treasure trove of insights, practical advice, and a call to action to integrate substance use assessments into their practice. Tune in to learn how these assessments can significantly enhance treatment outcomes and support clients on their journey to recovery.
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