What does the TLFB procedure assess?

The TLFB (Timeline Followback) procedure is a well-established assessment tool used to help individuals recount and record their substance use over a specific period, often focusing on patterns of drinking or drug use in relation to significant life events. By prompting clients to reflect on their usage in the context of their daily lives and notable occurrences, this method provides valuable insights into how lifestyle factors and emotional states may influence their substance use behaviors.

This approach is particularly beneficial because it allows for the identification of patterns and triggers related to alcohol or substance use that may coincide with stressors or meaningful changes, leading to a deeper understanding of the client's drinking habits. Consequently, the TLFB procedure effectively highlights the relationships between behavioral choices and life circumstances, making it a powerful tool in counseling and treatment planning.