What is the purpose of screening in the counseling process?

• A. To determine payment method
• B. To diagnose mental illness
• C. To evaluate treatment outcomes after completion
• D. To identify risk level, substance use severity, and need for further assessment or referral

Answer: (C)

Screening in counseling is a quick check designed to flag individuals who may have problems and need a deeper evaluation. Its main purpose is to identify the level of risk, the severity of substance use or other concerns, and whether there is a need for further assessment or a referral to specialized services. It isn’t about deciding how a client will pay for services, nor is it meant to diagnose a mental health disorder—that requires a more thorough clinical assessment. It also isn’t a tool for measuring how well treatment worked after it’s finished; that happens later, through ongoing treatment planning and outcome assessment. Screening helps determine who needs to move forward with a full assessment or appropriate referrals, so resources are focused where they’re most needed.