CIP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CIP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A client who uses alcohol to cope with social anxiety likely has: → A co-occurring anxiety disorder that should be addressed in treatment
2. An informed consent document in CIP practice should include: → Description of services, fees, confidentiality limits, and client rights
3. In the Systemic Family Intervention approach, the substance use problem is viewed as: → A symptom of dysfunctional family system patterns that maintain the disorder
4. A CIP should conduct a thorough case intake that includes gathering information about: → Substance use history, medical history, mental health history, and family dynamics
5. Which outcome is considered a 'successful' intervention even if the client initially refuses treatment? → Family members are unified, informed, and prepared to implement consequences
6. Which behavior violates ethical codes? → Accepting large gifts that affect decisions
7. Why is family input valuable in intervention planning? → To understand dynamics and enhance support
8. A 'bottom line' in intervention terminology refers to: → The specific consequence a concerned person will implement if the client refuses treatment
9. What is a major component of intervention planning? → Developing a structured approach with goals
10. Documentation of family pre-intervention meetings should include: → Topics covered, agreements made, concerns raised, and each participant's commitment level
11. Stimulant use disorder (cocaine, methamphetamine) is distinct from opioid use disorder in that: → There are currently no FDA-approved medications for stimulant use disorder
12. ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) criteria are used in treatment planning to: → Determine the appropriate level of care for a client
13. Which of the following situations represents a mandatory reporting obligation that would override normal confidentiality protections for a CIP professional? → A client discloses ongoing abuse of a child in the household
14. What is a key component of effective client engagement? → Demonstrating empathy and active listening
15. A 'psychological first aid' approach in crisis intervention emphasizes: → Stabilization, safety, and connection to support
16. A CIP's professional services agreement with the family should clearly define: → Scope of services, fees, payment terms, and what is NOT included in the CIP's role
17. A CIP should document a client's refusal of treatment by recording: → The client's specific reasons for refusal, the family's response, and next steps planned
18. Which of the following actions by a covered entity constitutes a HIPAA breach that triggers the Breach Notification Rule? → An unencrypted laptop containing protected health information is stolen
19. Which de-escalation technique is MOST effective when a client is in an acute emotional crisis? → Validating the client's feelings without judgment
20. What does the ASAM Criteria help determine? → Level of care and treatment setting
21. Which document should a CIP maintain to protect both the client and professional in case of litigation? → Detailed session notes documenting all contacts, decisions, and rationale
22. When a client walks out mid-intervention, the BEST immediate response is: → Allow brief space, then calmly follow and re-engage if safe
23. What tool is commonly used to evaluate substance use severity? → ASAM Criteria
24. How can client engagement be sustained throughout treatment? → Establishing trust and regular follow-ups
25. Which factor is crucial when evaluating treatment options? → Licensing, accreditation, and services offered
26. When a client has a co-occurring mood disorder and substance use disorder, this is referred to as: → Dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders
27. Which of the following BEST describes 'cross-tolerance' relevant to a CIP's intervention planning? → Tolerance developed to one substance reduces the effect of a chemically similar substance
28. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder using buprenorphine is: → An evidence-based approach the CIP should be able to discuss with families
29. According to the DSM-5, a substance use disorder diagnosis requires: → At least 2 of 11 criteria within a 12-month period
30. Which statement about marijuana use disorder is MOST accurate for a CIP to understand? → Approximately 9% of people who use marijuana will develop a use disorder