How to Find a Good Substance Abuse Evaluation Provider

Many communities have substance abuse evaluation providers. Private therapists along with substance abuse centers usually provide evaluations for people with substance abuse issues. Your local county often maintains lists of providers that the courts refer people to in your area. The United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration also keeps a list of substance abuse treatment facilities, including outpatient treatment, throughout the United States. Most states have a certification for professionals to be specialized in substance abuse treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask your friends and family for referrals if you are comfortable doing so. The best way to find a good substance abuse evaluation provider is often by personal referrals and experience.

• 2

  Talk to Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous groups. If you attend these meetings, many members will be able to give you suggestions about good substance abuse providers in your community.

• 3

  Find your county or state government's website. Many governments provide links to area resources including substance abuse providers in your community.

• 4

  Log on to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's website. Use the facility locator tool to find a substance abuse evaluation provider in your area. The agency maintains a list of 1,100 treatment facilities in the United States.

• 5

  Search the Internet using therapist locator sites. Often times, private therapists that have been specially trained in substance abuse treatment can provider substance abuse evaluations. Many of those sites, such as Psychology Today's therapist directory, allow you to choose the specialty you want your therapist to have. Many states also have special certification for therapists and psychologists in addiction counseling, such as the Certified Addiction Professional in Florida. Make sure your therapist has that certification.

• 6

  Call 211 or visit the website. 211 was created by United Way and now serves almost 82 percent of the U.S. population. 211 maintains a list of community resources including substance abuse evaluation centers.