A DUI evaluation is an in-depth clinical assessment that will determine what level of care is needed for court-mandated treatment as a result of a DUI arrest. This evaluation is performed by a counselor. During the assessment, clients are asked to answer questions regarding current and prior DUI arrests as well as medical history and drug and alcohol consumption habits and history. A DUI assessment combines information such as:
-Number of DUI arrests
-Blood Alcohol Concentration at the time of the most current arrest
-Medical History
-Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
The results of the symptoms will determine what risk level the client falls into, which directly correlates with how many hours of therapy the client must attend.
Minimal risk requires 10 hours of Risk Education, which may also be called “Drug and Alcohol Education”. Moderate Risk requires 10 hours of Risk Education in addition to 12 hours of group therapy. Significant Risk requires 10 hours of Risk Education and an additional 20 hours of group therapy and 6 sessions of Aftercare, which take place once a month for two hours per session. High Risk individuals can be categorized as either dependent or non-dependent. This is based upon how many symptoms of substance use disorder are present during the evaluation. High Risk individuals are required to attend 75 hours of therapy, which includes individual and group sessions, as well as 6-12 months of Aftercare. Additional requirements may include random drug testing, breathalyzers, or AA meetings.
Once a DUI evaluation is completed, the client will receive a copy within 2 weeks of the assessment date. Clients can bring their completed evaluation to any state-certified business or organization that offers DUI classes, even if that company did not perform the assessment. The evaluation will tell the counselors what needs to be completed for the client’s program and to fulfill the requirements of the court.
It is best to be honest and forthcoming during the assessment. Our counselors provide services without judgement or condemnation. It can only help to be upfront and thorough from the beginning.
Written by Kayla L Pape
MA Candidate, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
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