The ASI is primarily used for which purpose in substance abuse treatment?

The Addiction Severity Index (ASI) is a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment tool primarily used to evaluate various aspects of an individual's life that may be affected by substance abuse. This tool assists counselors in determining the severity of a person's substance use issues and identifying specific problem areas that require attention in treatment. By assessing dimensions such as medical status, employment history, drug use, legal issues, family/social relationships, and psychiatric status, the ASI can guide treatment planning.

Utilizing the ASI allows counselors to create a tailored and individualized approach to treatment, focusing on the unique challenges presented by each client. This targeted assessment aids in highlighting the critical areas that need intervention, therefore facilitating a more effective treatment process.