Which of the following is NOT a key goal and purpose of assessment?

The key goals and purposes of assessment in the context of alcohol and other drug abuse are essential for developing effective treatment strategies. The process of assessment typically seeks to understand the individual's specific situation, which includes several critical elements.

Identifying whether a substance or alcohol problem exists is indeed a crucial element of the assessment process; however, the answer suggesting this is not a goal is somewhat misplaced. The purpose of assessing if a problem exists serves as the foundation for all subsequent decisions and interventions. If there is uncertainty about the presence of a substance abuse issue, it complicates the ability to identify likely interventions and resources tailored to the individual's situation.

In contrast, the other elements listed—discovering the optimum intervention, identifying available resources, and evaluating the extent and severity of the issue—are all direct and necessary outcomes of a thorough assessment. They contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the individual's needs and help tailor treatment plans accordingly. Thus, while determining the presence of a problem is certainly a fundamental aspect of assessment, some aspects of the assessment process focus more on developing a strategic response to those needs rather than merely confirming a problem's existence.