Licensed Behavioral Health Provider in Maryland
Substance Use Evaluation in Maryland
Comprehensive, court-approved substance use assessments for DUI/DWI, court referrals, MVA requirements, and probation. Conducted by licensed professionals. English and Spanish.
Hablamos español- Nuestro equipo puede guiarte paso a paso.
Virtual & In-Person
Private Insurance Accepted
English and Spanish
What Is This Service?
A substance use evaluation is a comprehensive clinical assessment conducted by a licensed professional to determine an individual's relationship with alcohol and drugs. The evaluation identifies whether a substance use disorder exists, assesses the severity of any identified condition, and recommends an appropriate level of education or treatment.
In Maryland, substance use evaluations are commonly required after a DUI or DWI charge. The results of the evaluation determine which program — 12-hour education, 16-hour early intervention, or 26-hour treatment — the individual must complete. The evaluation also serves as documentation for courts, the MVA, probation officers, and attorneys.
Counseling Plus Inc. has been conducting substance use evaluations in Maryland since 1990. Our licensed evaluators provide thorough, objective assessments in a professional and respectful environment. Evaluations are conducted in both English and Spanish.
Who Needs This Service?
You may need a substance use evaluation if you have been charged with a DUI or DWI in Maryland and the court or MVA has required an assessment. Evaluations are also commonly required by probation officers, attorneys, and diversion programs to determine the appropriate level of education or treatment.
Individuals who are not involved with the legal system may also seek a substance use evaluation for personal insight, employer requirements, or as part of a treatment planning process. An evaluation can help clarify whether substance use is a concern and what level of intervention, if any, might be beneficial.
If you have received a court order or MVA referral requiring an evaluation, it is important to schedule it promptly. The evaluation results often determine what additional programs you must complete, so starting early gives you the most time to fulfill all requirements before your deadline.
How the Process Works
The evaluation process begins with scheduling an appointment. You will meet with a licensed evaluator — either in person or virtually — for a confidential assessment session. The evaluator will ask questions about your substance use history, patterns, and related factors.
The evaluation typically includes a structured interview, standardized assessment tools, and a review of relevant history. The evaluator assesses the nature and extent of any substance use, identifies risk factors, and determines whether a substance use disorder is present and, if so, its severity.
After the evaluation, you will receive a written report with the findings and recommendations. This report specifies which program — if any — is recommended based on the assessment. We provide the report to you and, with your authorization, can send it directly to your attorney, court, probation officer, or the MVA.
How Long Does It Take?
A substance use evaluation typically takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete. The session is conducted in a single appointment, either in person or virtually.
The written report is usually prepared within a few business days of the evaluation. We can provide the report to you, your attorney, your probation officer, or the court, depending on your needs and authorizations.
We understand that evaluations are often time-sensitive, especially when court dates or MVA deadlines are approaching. We strive to schedule evaluations quickly and prepare reports promptly to help you meet your requirements.
Who Accepts It?
Our substance use evaluations are accepted by the Maryland MVA, Maryland district and circuit courts, probation officers, attorneys, and diversion programs throughout the state. Our evaluators are licensed and our reports meet the standards required by Maryland courts and the MVA.
We provide the evaluation report in a format that meets legal and clinical requirements. With your authorization, we can send the report directly to your attorney, probation officer, or the court. All documentation is provided at no additional administrative cost.
If you are a Maryland resident with an out-of-state DUI, our evaluation may satisfy your requirements, but acceptance depends on the referring agency. We recommend obtaining approval from your out-of-state court or program before scheduling the evaluation.
How Do I Get Started?
Contact us at (301) 565-9001 or through our online intake form. Our bilingual team will gather basic information, confirm what documentation you need, and schedule your evaluation — often within 48 hours.
If you have a referral letter, court order, employer request, or school documentation, bring it to your appointment. If you are self-referred, bring a photo ID and insurance information.
If you have a referral letter, court order, employer request, or school documentation, bring it to your appointment. If you are self-referred, bring a photo ID and insurance information.
HOW IT WORKS
Three Simple Steps to Get Started
We make the process as easy as possible so you can focus on what matters.
Complete the Intake Form Below
Fill out a quick form online or over the phone. Takes less than 10 minutes.
Speak With Our Team
We'll review your situation and help you understand exactly what's required.
Start Your Program
Begin your program — in person or online. We provide all documentation for court.
