Intervention Principles and Practice Guidelines for - Underage ...

Assessment and Treatment Matching
Assessment was discussed extensively under an earlier practice guideline where emphasis was
given to the need to have qualified substance abuse treatment professionals conduct specific in-depth
assessments of individuals who demonstrate significant alcohol problems when initial screening tools
are administered. Professionals who conduct alcohol and other drug assessments on adolescents and
young adults need to be knowledgeable about substance abuse and its course and ramifications in
young people. As Brannigan and associates (2004, p. 699) note, “Prematurely labeling teens as abusers
can be harmful and may actually promote their progression from use to abuse.” Further, they suggest
that it may be appropriate to include a family assessment, as it may be important to identify and tailor
treatment for youth and young adults with special circumstances, such as those who are children of
alcoholics or those who are experiencing developmental delays because of their alcohol use.
Assessment is the first step in determining the type of treatment approach to which a youth or
young adult may respond most positively. The options available for alcohol treatment programs will
vary depending on many local factors. Some communities may have only one or two resources while
others will have a multitude of programs. When programs are limited, justice system professionals may
have to work with existing programs to expand their options or promote the development of additional
resources. Some factors that should be investigated for treatment programs include the following
(Crowe & Reeves, 1994):
• Program characteristics: What substances can be treated? What are the demographics of those
in treatment, program cost and location, and eligibility criteria for admission to the program?
• Program proficiency: Does the program deliver treatment in the intended manner, quantity, and
intensity? Are there outcome data indicating positive results for the majority of clients?
• Program strategies: Individuals in treatment are held accountable for attendance, punctuality,
and abstinence. Programs use an array of possible consequences appropriate for the individual
and the infraction, when needed. Referrals are made for participants’ other identified needs.
• Staff competency and attitudes: The program employs sufficient staff for the number and needs
of program participants. Staff are experienced and trained in providing the services for which
they are responsible. Staff provide strong leadership but show compassion and model positive
personal characteristics. Staff exhibit attitudes that require responsibility and accountability.
• Willingness to coordinate with the justice system.
Similarly, characteristics of individuals needing treatment should be evaluated to match them with
treatment programs. The following areas should be considered (Crowe & Reeves, 1994):
• Readiness and motivation for treatment: Individuals will have more successful treatment
experiences if they are ready for and want to change their behavior.
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