Information and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do I need a referral?   

Not necessarily. Individuals may contact Embrace Recovery directly to inquire about scheduling a Chemical Use Assessment. We also work with courts, probation, corrections, and other referral sources. If you have been referred for an assessment, we can help you understand the next steps. 

Can I get an assessment by telehealth?

Yes. Embrace Recovery offers Chemical Use Assessments by secure telehealth when appropriate. Telehealth can make it easier for individuals who have transportation, scheduling, or other barriers to accessing services. We will help determine whether telehealth is appropriate for your situation and explain how to connect. 

Do you accept court/probation referrals?

Yes. Embrace Recovery works with individuals referred by courts, probation, corrections, and other authorized referral sources. We can complete the assessment and provide recommendations based on your individual needs. If you have been ordered to complete an assessment, contact us or have your referral source contact us to coordinate scheduling. 

What happens during an assessment?

A Chemical Use Assessment is a confidential conversation designed to understand you and your individual circumstances. We will talk about your substance use history, current concerns, health and mental health, living situation, support system, previous treatment experiences, and other factors that may affect your recovery.

The assessment also looks at your current needs and risks and helps determine whether a substance use disorder is present and what level of care or services may be appropriate. 

◾Most importantly, the assessment is not about judging you. It's about understanding where you are and determining what support may be most appropriate. 

Do I have to be in treatment to get an assessment?

No. A Chemical Use Assessment does not automatically mean you are committing to treatment with Embrace Recovery. An assessment is used to better understand your needs and determine whether treatment or other services are recommended. If treatment is recommended, we can discuss your options and help you understand the next steps. Minnesota law also provides that an individual seeking treatment can access an enrolled provider licensed for the recommended level of service.

How long does an assessment take? 

Most Chemical Use Assessments take approximately 1–2 hours, depending on the individual's circumstances and the information that needs to be reviewed. We recommend allowing enough time to complete the assessment without feeling rushed. 

Ready to get started? 

Whether you are seeking an assessment on your own or have been referred by a court, probation, or another agency, we're here to help you understand the next step.