Author: The SASSI Institute

How Telehealth Is Expanding Access to Substance Use Screening with the SASSI

As telehealth continues to reshape the healthcare landscape, behavioral health professionals are finding new opportunities to reach clients in innovative ways. One powerful example is the integration of the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) into telehealth practices. This trusted tool for identifying individuals who may have a substance use disorder is now more accessible than ever—thanks to digital delivery.

Breaking Barriers with Telehealth and SASSI

The SASSI was designed to help clinicians detect substance use issues, even in individuals who may not acknowledge their struggles. In a telehealth setting, this becomes especially valuable. Clients can complete the inventory from the privacy of their own homes, which may reduce defensiveness and increase the accuracy of results.

But the benefits go well beyond convenience.

Key Benefits of Using SASSI Online in Telehealth

1. Increased Accessibility
Telehealth removes geographic and logistical barriers, giving clients in rural or underserved communities access to screening tools they might otherwise miss. With SASSI Online, clinicians can send a secure link, and clients can complete the assessment from anywhere with internet access.

2. Client Comfort and Honesty
The privacy of a remote setting often helps clients feel more relaxed—especially when discussing difficult topics like substance use. This comfort can lead to more genuine responses, enhancing the SASSI’s effectiveness.

3. Immediate Results for Informed Care
SASSI Online provides instant scoring and interpretation, allowing clinicians to discuss results in real time during a telehealth session. This supports faster clinical decisions and more seamless integration into treatment planning.

4. Streamlined Practice Management
Digitally administering the SASSI reduces paperwork and helps clinicians maintain more organized and efficient records. Results can be securely stored or integrated into electronic health records, improving documentation and continuity of care.

Practical Applications Across Fields

The flexibility of SASSI Online makes it a great fit for a wide range of telehealth services, including:

  • Mental Health Therapy: Screening for co-occurring substance use issues during virtual sessions.
  • Primary Care and Chronic Pain Management: Identifying patterns of misuse that may complicate treatment.
  • School Counseling: Using the Adolescent SASSI (SASSI-A3) in remote appointments to catch early signs of substance use in teens.
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Conducting screenings during remote wellness check-ins.

Tips for Telehealth Providers

To make the most of the SASSI in a remote care setting:

  • Walk clients through the process clearly—what to expect, how long it will take, and what the results mean.
  • Integrate the SASSI results into a broader conversation about mental health, support systems, and next steps.
  • Follow up with resources, referrals, or treatment recommendations tailored to the client’s needs.

Looking Ahead

Telehealth is here to stay—and tools like the SASSI are evolving alongside it. By combining clinical insight with the power of technology, providers can offer thoughtful, early intervention for substance use—without waiting for an in-person visit.

Whether you’re a therapist, nurse practitioner, school counselor, or case manager, SASSI Online makes it easier than ever to offer this critical screening tool in the digital age.

Interested in learning more about integrating the SASSI into your telehealth practice?
Visit www.sassi.com or contact our team for a demo of SASSI Online.

Remembering Jack Harlow: A Legacy of Kindness and Dedication

It is with great sorrow that we report the passing of a longtime friend and supporter of the SASSI, Jack Harlow.  Jack was a board member of The SASSI Institute for several years and was involved in the correctional field in many forms for the better part of 40 years. He was also a lifetime member of the Indiana Criminal Justice Association, as well as a chapter founder of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of South-Central Indiana (formerly BB/BS of Monroe County). We share our deepest condolences with his family. May he rest in peace. Jack was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce’s 105th Annual Meeting & Community Awards in 2020.  We share the touching tribute video created to commemorate the award.

Jack Harlow was honored as the Lifetime Achievement recipient at the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce’s 105th Annual Meeting & Community Awards virtual event on Thursday, September 17th, 2020.

SASSI Supporting Community Corrections

The SASSI Institute supports community corrections by providing tools, training, and resources to help probation officers, case managers, and other professionals identify substance use issues among individuals in the criminal justice system. Our tools can enhance decision-making, reduce recidivism, and support successful rehabilitation efforts.

Key Ways the SASSI Institute Supports Community Corrections:

1. Validated Screening Tools:

  • The Adult SASSI-4 and Adolescent SASSI-A3 are effective tools for identifying substance use disorders, even in individuals who may deny or minimize their use.
  • The Correctional (COR) scale may be useful in promoting discussion of the basis of clients’ legal difficulties, if any, and behavioral patterns that prompt other types of sanctions. Discussions focused on ways to avoid future problems can be valuable for the client.

2. Efficient Assessment Process:

  • SASSI tools are quick and easy to administer, typically taking 15 minutes to complete, which minimizes disruption to case management workflows.
  • Scoring can be completed manually or through online software, allowing for rapid scoring, interpretation and integration into case plans.

3. Objective Decision-Making:

  • The SASSI provides objective scoring to support probation and parole decisions and help in identifying high-risk behaviors.
  • Can help in determining appropriate levels of intervention based on the likelihood of substance use disorders and scale scores.

4. Treatment Matching and Referral:

  • The SASSI can offer insights into individuals’ substance use patterns and behaviors, aiding in referrals to suitable treatment programs.

5. Training for Community Corrections Professionals:

  • The SASSI Institute provides workshops to train professionals in using SASSI tools effectively.
  • Training ensures probation officers and case managers can confidently interpret results and apply them in their work.

6. Reducing Recidivism:

  • By identifying substance use issues early, SASSI tools help community corrections professionals intervene before substance use leads to further criminal behavior.
  • The SASSI can supports rehabilitation efforts by addressing substance use as a contributing factor to criminal activity.

7. Resources for Special Populations:

  • Offers tools and guidance for working with diverse populations, including adolescents, monolingual Spanish speakers and IAmerican Sign Language.

8. Ongoing Support:

  • Access to our Free Clinical Help Line for assistance with interpreting results and addressing case-specific questions.
  • Updates and resources to keep community corrections professionals informed about best practices in substance use screening and assessment.

Benefits of using the SASSI in Community Corrections:

  • Enhances the ability to identify and address substance use issues in justice-involved individuals.
  • Improves treatment outcomes and supports long-term rehabilitation.
  • Efficient and reliable screening tools reduces workload.
  • Strengthens the link between corrections, treatment providers, and community resources.

The SASSI Institute can help community corrections professionals make informed decisions, improve client outcomes, and contribute to public safety. Large volume SASSI users in federal, state, and local correctional centers can reach out to us about the development of customized reports on a contractual basis to meet specific program needs

Join us for one of our live In-Person SASSI Trainings

We are excited that our certified SASSI trainers are getting back on the road to offer you live in-person training. Below is a list of currently scheduled workshops. Don’t see your state or province on the list? Be sure to check out our training page for new additions at https://sassi.com/sassi-training-us/ or https://sassi.com/sassi-training-canada/. Feel free to reach out directly to the training in your area with questions.

  • Birmingham, AL | June 25, 2025
  • Fairbanks, AK | June 13, 2025
  • Anchorage, AK | June 16, 2025
  • Juneau, AK | June 18, 2025
  • Little Rock, AR | June 20, 2025
  • Hartford, CT | July 18, 2025
  • Dover, DE | July 16, 2025
  • Fort Lauderdale, FL | July 31, 2025
  • Atlanta, GA | July 9, 2025
  • Līhuʻe, HI | June 2, 2025
  • Honolulu, HI | June 4, 2025
  • Boston, MA | July 21, 2025
  • Detroit, MI | July 25, 2025
  • Jackson, MS | June 23, 2025
  • Newark, NJ | July 23, 2025
  • Raleigh, NC | July 7, 2025
  • Portland, OR | June 6, 2025
  • Seattle, WA | June 9, 2025
  • Spokane, WA | June 11, 2025
  • Charleston, WV | July 14, 2025

Registration information can be found at https://sassi.com/sassi-training-us/. You can also join us for one of our live online or on-demand trainings at https://sassi.com/sassi-training-online/.

Our Commitment to Ongoing Research

The SASSI Institute is dedicated to enhancing the utility of our screening tools through ongoing research and development. Our efforts focus on improving our screening instruments, understanding substance use trends, and addressing co-occurring disorders.

Key Research Areas:

Instrument Validation and Updates: The Institute has conducted recent validation studies to ensure the effectiveness of the SASSI in detecting substance use disorders among adults and adolescents. This includes research on identifying individuals who may underreport or deny substance use.

Co-Occurring Disorders: Mental Health Correlations | Research has explored the relationship between the adolescent SASSI-A3 scores and mental health diagnoses, such as depression and anxiety, in adolescents. This work aims to provide clinicians with tools to better address co-occurring disorders.

Substance Use Trends: Emerging Drug Threats | The Institute has published commentaries on the public health dangers of substances like Bromazolam and Xylazine, examining their prevalence in the illicit drug supply and associated risks.

Criminal Justice Applications: Offender Screening | Studies have examined the use of SASSI instruments to identify substance use disorders among offenders, highlighting the importance of early detection in reducing recidivism.The SASSI Institute collaborates with practitioners and researchers to gather data and refine their assessment tools, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of professionals in the field. For more detailed research information and publications, please visit www.sassi.com. We encourage you to reach out to us with questions or inquiries into research collaborations (we are especially interested in special populations) at research@sassi.com.

Celebrating 5 Years of Insight and Impact: The SASSI Institute Blogaversary

As we mark a significant milestone – the 5th anniversary of the SASSI Network Blog – we want to take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve shared with our readers and celebrate the knowledge, stories, and progress made in the field of substance abuse.

Since the launch of the SASSI Network Blog, our mission has been clear: to provide valuable resources that help professionals in the field of substance use treatment, prevention, and recovery. Whether through evidence-based research, real-world case studies, or expert advice, we’ve aimed to create content that educates, informs, and inspires.

Highlighting Our Most Popular Blog Topics

As part of our anniversary celebration, we’re looking back at some of our most popular blog topics over the years. These posts sparked conversations, provided critical insights, and offered practical solutions to some of the most pressing challenges faced by professionals working with individuals impacted by substance use.

Some of these blog topics included:

  • Understanding the Adult SASSI-4: A deep dive into how the SASSI-4 tool works and how clinicians can interpret results to make informed decisions for their clients.
  • The Role of Family Dynamics in Substance Use Recovery: Exploring the often-overlooked role that family relationships play in both the development and recovery from substance use disorders.
  • Emerging Trends in Substance Use: Examinations of the latest substances and patterns of misuse affecting communities and how professionals can stay ahead of new challenges.

The Impact of Our Readers

What makes our blog truly special is our community of readers. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of connecting with professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals affected by substance use disorders. We’ve heard your stories, answered your questions, and learned from your experiences.

Your feedback and engagement have been instrumental in shaping the direction of our content. We’ve been honored to share your successes and challenges as we all work toward creating healthier communities. Your dedication to learning and growth in this field continues to inspire us every day.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter

As we look ahead to the next five years and beyond, we hope that the SASSI Network Blog will continue to be a source of knowledge and support. We’re committed to providing content that helps professionals navigate the ever-changing landscape of substance use treatment.

We look forward to continuing our journey with you and exploring new topics, offering fresh perspectives, and delving deeper into the issues that matter most to you.

On this special anniversary, we want to thank you, our readers, for your continued support and for being part of the SASSI Network blog community. Your dedication to improving the lives of those affected by substance use disorders is the heart of everything we do.

Here’s to the next chapter in our shared journey. Thank you for being with us!

Stay tuned for more insightful posts, resources, and updates as we continue to support professionals in the field of substance use assessment and treatment.

Winter Weather Challenges: Meeting Your Needs

Dear SASSI Customers,

We hope this message finds you safe and well.  As many of you are also experiencing, our office has been impacted by severe winter weather recently and forecasts show it is likely to continue in the coming weeks. At The SASSI Institute, we understand that adverse weather can disrupt routines and create challenges for everyone.  While the safety of our team remains our top priority, we are committed to maintaining the high level of service you expect from us.  

During inclement weather our staff will continue offering crucial services remotely to ensure that our team remains available to assist you with your needs. Whether it’s technical support, placing an order, or answering your clinical questions, our dedicated staff will be ready to provide the assistance you require, even if severe weather prevents us from being in the office. Unfortunately, hazardous weather conditions may delay our shipping operations, and we kindly ask for your patience regarding shipping of physical order fulfillment during these periods.

Additionally, if you need a remote work administration option, the SASSI questionnaire is available online at https://sassionline.com/ for the Adolescent SASSI-A3, Adult SASSI-4, and Spanish SASSI versions. You and your clients can stay safe from winter weather hazards by completing the questionnaire using a supported web browser on most modern devices, which will then be scored by our automated system and immediately available to view, with a brief narrative report of client screening results.

Why Remote Work Benefits Everyone

Allowing our team to work remotely during challenging weather conditions is not only a testament to our adaptability but also a strategic approach to ensuring continuity. Here are some ways this benefits both our business and yours:

  • Uninterrupted Support: Remote work ensures that our team is accessible to address your needs without compromising their safety.
  • Efficient Communication: The safe alternative to remote work is to just close the business. But by staying connected digitally, we minimize disruptions to our customer service and technical support processes.
  • Safety First: Protecting our employees’ well-being enables them to remain focused and productive on providing you with the best possible service.
  • Sustainability: Remote work reduces unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions, contributing to safer roads for those drivers who must travel, road crews, and first responders.

Thank you for choosing The SASSI Institute. We value your business and look forward to serving you no matter the weather.

Happy New Year from The SASSI Institute!

As we usher in another year, we at The SASSI Institute want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made together and share our excitement for the opportunities ahead. The start of a new year is not only a time for celebration but also a time to recommit ourselves to our mission of providing valid and reliable tools to support professionals in the substance use addiction field.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, we invite you to join us in making 2025 a year of impact and innovation. Stay connected by following us on our social media channels, attending our training workshops, participating in our free online clinical Q&A sessions, and sharing your insights with us.

Together, we can continue to build a future where every individual struggling with substance use receives the care and support they deserve. Let’s make this year one to remember—for all the right reasons.

Wishing you a prosperous and fulfilling 2025,

The SASSI Institute Team

Skillfully Using the SASSI

We want clinicians to find the SASSI to be helpful in their work in a way that enables them to affect the lives of their clients in a positive manner.

When a client is unable to acknowledge (sincerely deluded) or unwilling to accept they may have a problem, a clinician’s skillful and caring feedback on SASSI results may help break through those barriers and enable the client to take the courageous step toward recovery.

If you would like to learn more about clinically interpreting SASSI profiles, we encourage you to join us for one of Clinical Interpretation trainings. For more information on live, on-demand, and in-person workshops, please visit https://sassi.com/sassi-training/

Free assistance interpreting SASSI results is available M-F 1-5 pm ET at 800.726-0526 Option 2.