Why Therapists Might Not Assess for Substance UseWhy Therapists Might Not Assess for Substance Use
All Things Substance
Why would therapists not ask about substance use? Perhaps a fear of practicing out of scope, not feeling like they have enough knowledge about drugs and a number of others. We’ll talk about those reasons in today's episode.
40:08•31 Jan 2022
Why Some Therapists Avoid Substance Use Questions: Insights from Betsy Byler
“The main thing I want you to get out of today's discussion is that these potential barriers are normal.”
Therapists often find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to asking clients about substance use. Betsy Byler, host of 'All Things Substance', dives into the reasons behind this hesitation in this episode. She sheds light on common fears such as practicing outside one's scope and lacking sufficient knowledge about drugs. Byler reassures therapists that these barriers can be overcome with the right approach and mindset.
She compares assessing for substance use to assessing for medical issues, emphasizing that it's a skill that can be learned and honed. Personal biases and experiences also play a role, and Byler encourages therapists to recognize their limits and seek help when needed. She provides strategies for setting up sensitive, non-judgmental conversations that make clients feel comfortable discussing their substance use.
Additionally, Byler touches on handling suicidal ideation with empathy and compassion, offering valuable insights for therapists at any stage of their career. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to enhance their practice and better support their clients.
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