| Abstract: | The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) provides counselors with an updated method for diagnosing Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). In this article, the author presents information that demonstrates the need for all counselors to be knowledgeable concerning the SUDs and examines the essential features of the SUDs and the use of the DSM-IV in their diagnosis. A review of select instruments and techniques for assessment of the SUDs is presented. |
