Academic perspectives are reviewed for consultation in substance abuse within four general issues: consultation paradigms, research consultation and psychology, sources for consultation, and academic issues. The mental health/crisis intervention model is the most common consultation paradigm. Most consultation research in the substance abuse area focused upon issues of treatment and/or referral of those with alcohol or drug problems. Very little research exists with respect to the evaluation of the consultation. Research consultation is one method of consultation for academically affiliated psychologists who can contribute expertise in knowledge of the literature, methodology, ethical issues, and grant and report writing. The crisis intervention approach is inappropriate within a research setting; research consultation/evaluation should be a more continuous process. The role of the academician in consultation has been reviewed with respect to whether or not the academician who consults for pay may be shirking academic responsibilities. Research suggests that those who consult are generally more productive than their non-consulting colleagues, and that consultation for pay does not result in a reduction in academic performance. (Author)