When assessing an individual, psychological and substance use assessment tests are frequently used during the procedure. Some of the tests can only be given by specially trained professionals, like intelligence tests, personality inventories, neuropsychological tests, and psychological tests. However, some counselors can give tests as well as interpret them with only a small amount of training. These substance use tests are specifically designed for individuals claiming to already have had a substance use problem, and the results are used to better comprehend and classify their addiction patterns. Substance use tests that counselors can administer include: the Addiction Severity Index (ASI), which lasts an hour, contains 200 sections, and helps to determine the treatment and outcome of the problem, can be taken with or without an interviewer. The Alcohol Use Inventory (AUI) takes between 35 and 60 minutes to administer, has 228 sections, can be taken alone or with an interviewer, and can only be administered to people over the age of 16.

Psychosocial tests can also be used when assessing an individual who suffers from an addiction. These tests are made up of comprehensive collections of information collected from friends and family regarding the individual's current and past functioning levels. A psychosocial test will include a presentation of the problem (any symptoms, concerns, or specific needs that need to be treated) as well as the signs and symptoms of the problem (are there any indications of mental, emotional, or behavioral problems?).