Tag: SASSI-4

Opportunity for Experienced SASSI Users

If you enjoy sharing knowledge and have an enthusiasm for the SASSI, we invite you to consider becoming a certified SASSI trainer. We are looking for individuals to offer live in-person trainings to the public (open trainers) in their state/province of residence and possibly surrounding states/provinces, as well as individuals to provide training for their organization’s staff and their satellite offices (closed trainers).

Open trainers charge a fee to participants and advertise their training to the public (placement on SASSI website is provided). Closed trainers do not advertise to the public and do not collect a registration fee for providing the training. Both types of trainers can issue certificates of attendance with continuing education credits and all materials needed to provide training are sent at no cost.

Qualifications for trainers are as follows:

  • At least five years of experience in addictions or mental health counseling
  • Experience in assessment, group work, teaching, or workshop presentation
  • Experience using the SASSI, having screened at least 20 clients with it
  • Good verbal communication skills
  • Education: College degree or advanced degree or certification as a substance abuse professional
  • Experience in psychometrics helpful, but not required

Procedures for obtaining open trainer certification can be found here and closed trainer certification here. Please reply to scarlett@sassi.com with any questions or to apply.

Live SASSI Training Online and Clinical Q&A Webinar Coming Up – Register Now!

We will be hosting a Live online SASSI Training webinar on the Administration & Scoring of the web-based format of the SASSI (SASSI Online) as well as Clinical Interpretation in September. These sessions are $60 USD each and provide 3.5 CEUs. You can learn more and register by clicking here.

We also invite you to join us for a free one-hour SASSI Clinical Q&A webinar hosted by our Clinical Director, David Helton, LMSW, LCDC. The Q&A is for anyone new to using the SASSI, those considering using the SASSI, or seasoned veterans at screening with the SASSI. The Q&A is scheduled from 11 am – Noon ET on: October 28th. You can save your spot by clicking here. We welcome you to share profiles to discuss with the group by sending them (de-identified) via email any time prior to the session to scarlett@sassi.com. These profiles will help others learn about SASSI and offer insight into the various profile configurations. Note: Q&A sessions do not provide CEUs and are not a substitute for SASSI Training.

Clinical Q&A Webinar – Please Join Us | Register Now!

Please join us for a free one-hour online SASSI Clinical Q&A session hosted by our Clinical Director, David Helton, LMSW, LCDC. Everyone is welcome to join us: those new to the SASSI, those considering implementation of the SASSI, or seasoned veterans of the SASSI. The Q&A is scheduled from 11 am – Noon ET on July 22nd. Save your spot by clicking here. Please share interesting profiles for David to discuss with the group by sending them (de-identified) via email any time prior to the session to scarlett@sassi.com. These profiles will help others learn about SASSI and offer insight into the various profile configurations. Note: Q&A sessions do not provide CEUs and are not a substitute for SASSI Training.

If you are interested in participating in a certified SASSI training, we will be hosting a Live SASSI Training webinar on the Administration & Scoring of the paper & pencil format of the SASSI as well as Clinical Interpretation on June 10th (Session 1) and June 24th (session 2). The sessions are $60 USD each and provide 3.5 CEUs. You can learn more and register by clicking here.

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/.

What is The SASSI Institute’s Clinical Help Line?

The SASSI Institute’s Clinical Help Line is a free resource designed to support clinicians and professionals using the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI). It provides assistance with clinical interpretation of scores on each of the SASSI scales; helps individuals understand typical trends seen in SASSI profiles and how to use that information in educating clients, making referrals for clients, or developing treatment plans; provides assistance in manual scoring issues; and addresses any other specific SASSI-related questions.

Typical Clinical Help Line services include:

· Clarifying how to interpret complex or ambiguous results.

· Answering questions about the SASSI tools’ methodology or scoring.

· Providing recommendations for follow-up based on screening results.

· Offering advice on integrating SASSI assessments into broader treatment planning.

This service helps clinicians maximize the effectiveness of the SASSI tools in identifying and addressing substance use issues in diverse client populations. The Clinical Help Line is staffed by experienced, licensed/certified professionals with many years of experience and expertise in the SASSI instruments, substance use disorders and screening and assessment. They are available to answer your questions Monday thru Friday from 1:00pm to 5:00pm EST. This is a totally free service so give our friendly clinicians a call and allow us to help you make your experience with the SASSI even better for you and your clients!

Reignite Your Professional Growth with Onsite SASSI Training

In a world increasingly dominated by virtual interactions, the value of face-to-face, hands-on training cannot be overstated. Onsite SASSI training offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in a dynamic learning environment that sparks creativity, fosters meaningful connections, and enhances your skillset.

Why Choose Onsite Training?

  • Personal Interaction: Engage directly with experienced trainers and fellow participants, creating a rich learning experience.
  • Hands-On Experience: Participate in practical exercises and real-time problem-solving that solidify your understanding and application of key concepts.
  • Immediate Feedback: Receive instant, personalized feedback from trainers, allowing you to refine your skills on the spot.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build lasting professional relationships with peers who share your commitment to excellence and growth.

Take the Next Step:

Ready to make a positive impact on your staff? Email me, Wallace Jones (an independent Certified SASSI Training contractor), via email wj1856@yahoo.com, by phone: 561.570.2118, or via WhatsApp: 849.707.8886, for your next onsite SASSI training sessions. Your staff will thank you!

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

Clinical Q&A and Live SASSI Training Webinar – Please Join Us | Register Now!

We welcome you to join us for a free one-hour online SASSI Clinical Q&A session hosted by our Clinical Director, David Helton, LMSW, LCDC. Whether you’re new to the SASSI, considering using the SASSI, or a seasoned veteran at screening with the SASSI, everyone is welcome. The Q&A is scheduled from 11 am – Noon ET on: January14th. You can save your spot by clicking here. We welcome you to share profiles to discuss with the group by sending them (de-identified) via email any time prior to the session to scarlett@sassi.com. These profiles will help others learn about SASSI and offer insight into the various profile configurations. Note: Q&A sessions do not provide CEUs and are not a substitute for SASSI Training.

Additionally, we will be hosting a Live SASSI Training webinar on the Administration & Scoring of the paper & pencil format of the SASSI as well as Clinical Interpretation in December. The sessions are $60 USD each and provide 3.5 CEUs. You can learn more and register by clicking here.

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.