5 Reasons Therapists Don’t Assess for Substance Use & 5 Reasons They Should5 Reasons Therapists Don’t Assess for Substance Use & 5 Reasons They Should
All Things Substance
Many therapists shy away from asking about substance use. There are some very common and very valid reasons for this. Today, I want to share the top 5 most common reasons I’ve heard for avoiding talking about substance use. Then I want to...
42:43•8 Sept 2023
Therapists and Substance Use: Overcoming Hesitations and Embracing Assessments
Episode Overview
- Highlighting therapists' reluctance to assess substance use
- Emphasizing the importance of acquiring necessary training to work with substance use
- Encouraging therapists to address substance use within their scope of practice
- Empowering therapists to effectively work with substance use issues
- Building confidence in therapists to support clients dealing with substance use
“Our job is not to fix people. Our job is to help them figure out what it is that is bothering them, that is getting in the way of their life, and helping walk with them as they seek to change it.”
Why do many therapists avoid asking their clients about substance use? Betsy Byler, the insightful host of 'All Things Substance', tackles this crucial question head-on in this episode. With her extensive background as a licensed therapist, clinical supervisor, and substance use counselor, Betsy breaks down the top five reasons therapists shy away from these conversations. Whether it's fear of offending clients or feeling unprepared to handle the answers, Betsy acknowledges these concerns with empathy and understanding.
But she doesn't stop there. She flips the script by presenting five compelling reasons why therapists should incorporate substance use assessments into their practice. From enhancing therapeutic outcomes to building stronger client relationships, Betsy offers practical advice and encouragement to help therapists overcome their hesitations. This episode is a must-listen for any mental health professional looking to deepen their practice and better support their clients.

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