Which of the following is one of the last steps in the 12 Core Functions?

The correct answer is treatment planning, which is one of the final steps in the 12 Core Functions of a substance abuse counselor. Treatment planning involves creating a tailored strategy for individuals based on their specific needs, identified problems, and treatment goals. By the time a counselor reaches this stage, they have already conducted orientations, screenings, and assessments that provide the necessary information about the client’s situation. This foundational understanding allows for a comprehensive treatment plan to be developed, encompassing interventions and resources required to support the client's recovery journey.

The process begins with orientation, which introduces clients to the treatment setting and the services available. Subsequent steps include screening to evaluate clients’ substance use status, and assessment to gather comprehensive information about their history and current situation. These earlier functions lead to treatment planning, marking it as a culmination of the assessment process rather than a preliminary step. Thus, treatment planning plays a crucial role in guiding the therapeutic process and ensuring that the interventions align with the client's unique circumstances and objectives.