What is the primary purpose of risk assessment in SUD counseling?

• A. To identify potential dangers and plan interventions.
• B. To determine insurance coverage.
• C. To diagnose personality disorders.
• D. To measure client satisfaction.

Answer: (A)

The main aim of risk assessment in SUD counseling is to identify safety concerns and plan interventions to reduce harm. By evaluating factors like suicidality or self-harm risk, overdose potential, withdrawal complications, dangerous living or legal situations, and gaps in supports, the counselor can create a safety plan, coordinate crisis resources, and tailor monitoring and treatment steps to prevent harm. Insurance coverage is an administrative issue, diagnosing personality disorders is a separate mental health evaluation, and measuring client satisfaction gauges service quality rather than immediate safety risks.