Utilizing screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment: teaching assessment of substance abuse

Although social workers regularly encounter clients with substance use problems, social work education rarely addresses addictions with any depth. This pilot study explored the use of screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) with 74 social work students. Students completed SBIRT training with pre- and post-questionnaires that assessed attitudes, knowledge, and skills concerning substance misuse. Statistically significant differences were demonstrated with students reporting more confidence in their ability to successfully assess for alcohol misuse and subsequently intervene.