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What Happens in a Substance Abuse Evaluation?
September 29, 2025

Facing a court case, probation condition, or just trying to understand your own behaviors? A substance abuse evaluation may be the next step — and while it may sound intimidating, it’s a confidential, structured conversation designed to help you get the support you need.

At PeachTree Behavioral, LLC, we perform court-approved substance abuse evaluations in Georgia with professionalism, care, and confidentiality. Whether required by law or self-initiated, our evaluations offer clarity, support, and next-step recommendations tailored to your situation.

What Is a Substance Abuse Evaluation?

A substance abuse evaluation is a clinical assessment used to determine whether someone has a substance use disorder and to what degree. It's often requested in legal, employment, or personal situations.

Common scenarios where an evaluation is needed include:

  • DUI or DWI charges
  • Probation or parole
  • Divorce or custody cases
  • Employment or HR referrals
  • Voluntary concern for your own use

What Happens During the Evaluation?

At PeachTree Behavioral, our substance abuse evaluations in Georgia follow a clear, respectful, and thorough process.

1. Confidential Intake Session

We start by gathering information about your background, history, and current circumstances. This includes:

  • Substance use history
  • Mental health history
  • Family background
  • Legal concerns
  • Medical conditions

2. Standardized Screening Tools

You may complete self-report questionnaires like the SASSI (Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory) or other proven tools to help assess your risk levels.

3. One-on-One Interview

A licensed clinician will ask questions to better understand your use patterns, behaviors, triggers, and any co-occurring mental health issues. This interview is non-judgmental and confidential.

4. Clinical Diagnosis (if applicable)

If a diagnosis is warranted, we will explain it clearly and compassionately. This is based on DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders.

5. Recommendations & Next Steps

Depending on your results, we may recommend:

  • No further treatment (if no diagnosis is found)
  • Education or awareness classes
  • Outpatient counseling
  • Intensive outpatient programs
  • Individual therapy
  • Support groups or peer recovery

You’ll also receive legal documentation or a report if needed for court or employment.

How Long Does a Substance Abuse Evaluation Take?

Evaluations typically last 60 to 90 minutes, depending on complexity and paperwork. At PeachTree Behavioral, we provide fast turnaround times for documentation — often within 24 to 48 hours for urgent cases.

Why Choose PeachTree Behavioral for Evaluations in Georgia?

  • Court-approved substance abuse evaluations
  • ✅ Licensed professionals with 7+ years of experience
  • ✅ Compassionate, non-judgmental care
  • ✅ Flexible appointments (in-person or phone)
  • ✅ Fast documentation for courts, probation, or employers
  • ✅ Located in Atlanta, serving clients across Georgia
  • ✅ Affordable self-pay options and accepted insurance

We understand that evaluations often come at stressful times. Our goal is to make the process simple, confidential, and supportive.

Is It Better to Do an Evaluation Voluntarily?

Yes. In many cases, proactively scheduling a substance abuse evaluation in Georgia — even before being ordered — shows responsibility to the court or employer and can reduce penalties.

It also gives you a chance to better understand your behaviors and take early action if needed.

If you're searching for what happens in a substance abuse evaluation, you're already taking the first step. At PeachTree Behavioral, we're here to guide you through it with clarity and compassion.

Schedule your confidential evaluation today and take the first step toward resolution and recovery.