The Addiction Severity Index is calculated through a one-on-one interview with a trained staff member upon intake at the treatment facility. The questions are predetermined, but the interview process is informal and conversational. The laid-back approach allows the addict to open up and speak naturally about their addiction history and other issues they might be facing. One of the main advantages of the Addiction Severity Index is the fact that it creates a more comprehensive report than other data collecting methods.
The responses are recorded using a 10-point scale, with zero being the least severe and nine being the most severe. The information collected is then utilized by the treatment center to:
Once this information is reported, clinicians have a much better idea of the individual’s needs and strengths upon entering treatment. People come to treatment at all stages of addiction, so it is important they are treated on a one-by-one basis.
The ASI is used as a primary reference for creating a treatment plan to suit these attributes on a personal basis. Core issues surrounding addiction that are not dealt with can keep an addict or alcoholic from achieving sobriety. For example, psychiatric issues, legal trouble and family problems can distract an individual when working through the recovery process. A customized treatment plan effectively attacks addiction on all fronts and significantly improves the chances of a full, happy and sober life after treatment.
Composite Scores are another great feature of the Addiction Severity Index. These can be used to track progress throughout rehabilitation and during other phases of recovery. Modified versions of questions are revisited after treatment is complete to reveal improvements in that individual. From here, the treatment plan can be adjusted accordingly. Composite questions are phrased for a 30-day period. For Example, “How many days in the past 30 have you had serious conflicts with your family?” The updated scores are weighted and calculated so that they can be compared with the intake scores.
You can absolutely recover from a “severe” rating. Just because an individual’s ASI score is high in a certain category, does not mean they cannot recover. Most addicts and alcoholics score high in at least one section of the index.
Yes! The Addiction Severity Index includes questions with responses that potentially change over time. Scores will increase or decrease and can be used to track improvements during treatment.
Studies show results from The Addiction Severity Index are highly consistent and highly reliable. While no assessment is perfect, the ASI is considered the industry standard for evaluating substance abuse patients.
Yes and No. The Severity Index give counselor’s, therapists and staff a better idea of the needs of the individual. Some people have more trouble in certain areas than others. Regardless of the actual score, your treatment will be tailored to your needs.
The Addiction Severity Index is done in a one-on-one setting with a mental health professional at our South Florida treatment facility. While the questions are predetermined, the interview is informal and conversational. This approach allows all involved to feel comfortable.
The responses provided by the clients are recorded using a 10-point scale, with zero being the least severe and 9 being the most severe. The information collected is then utilized by Ambrosia to:
Once this information is collected, clinicians have a much better idea of the individual’s needs and strengths upon entering treatment.
If you or your loved one are ready to start your road to recovery in West Palm Beach, visit our admissions page to get started today.
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