What should a counselor follow up with when a client screens positive for substance abuse or trauma-related symptoms?

When a client screens positive for substance abuse or trauma-related symptoms, the next appropriate step for a counselor is to conduct a comprehensive assessment. This is critical because a screening tool is designed to indicate potential issues and identify individuals who may need further evaluation. However, a positive screening result does not provide sufficient detailed information about the severity, frequency, or impact of the substance use or trauma symptoms.

A comprehensive assessment allows the counselor to gather a thorough understanding of the client's history, functioning, and specific needs. This process typically involves a detailed interview, the use of standardized assessment tools, and potentially collaborating with other professionals to ensure a holistic view of the client's situation. It ensures that treatment planning is tailored to the client's unique circumstances, which ultimately enhances the effectiveness of the interventions that are to follow.

In contrast, merely using intensive outpatient treatment without this detailed information could lead to misalignment between the treatment approach and the client's actual needs. Likewise, stating that none is needed or relying only on a simple questionnaire would not provide the depth of understanding necessary for effective intervention and support.