SAP Evaluation California, Alaska, Montana, and New Mexico

SAP Evaluation California

Employees who work under the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) face going through the SAP Return to duty process if they fail or refuse to participate in a DOT alcohol or drug test. These employees include CDL holders, truck drivers, pilots, bus drivers, and other safety-sensitive job positions. Because employers are under federal guidelines, the first step is always to have the violator step down from safety-sensitive duties. Some employers will even terminate the employee instead of having them on a leave of absence.

Doing so puts up a significant roadblock on working and making a regular income. If an employer were able, they could also move an employee to a non-safety sensitive position until the violation is taken care of. Regardless of the situation, a return to duty process is the only way to properly handle a DOT drug and alcohol violation. Many first-time alcohol and drug violators are unclear about what to do next if they would like to stay at the same company or in the same occupation and work under DOT regulations. Regardless of city, state, or employer, the process is always the same. First, up is taking time to find an SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) who is equipped with the training that qualifies them to conduct an evaluation on an employee looking to meet DOT requirements.

This evaluation can be face-to-face or via video conference to properly assess your history and current status regarding alcohol or drug use. The meeting will include a written questionnaire portion and an interview portion of the evaluation. Both components can be completed within an hour, but extra time can be allotted if more time is needed to make a proper assessment. SAP evaluators have different fees and requirements, but a quick call to a counseling office can help answer any questions you may have regarding prices, locations, availability, and conditions.

Along with assessing your past and present substance use history, the SAP Evaluation also serves the purpose of getting you the right amount of intervention. At the end of your SAP evaluation, you should expect to be directed to participate in counseling, treatment, or education course of some kind. Your SAP evaluator can and will help find local companies and facilities that can provide you with these resources.

Information Source:

SAMHSA | Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

U.S. Department of Transportation

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration | U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

About the Author

Jacques Khorozian,

Ph.D., LPC, NBCC, MAC, SAP, CCS

Jacques Khorozian, Ph.D., LPC, MAC, SAP, CCS, is an experienced behavioral health professional with over 30 years of work in the criminal justice system, specializing in mental health and substance use disorder treatment. He serves as Chief Executive Officer of American Alternative Court Services (AACS) in Atlanta, where he conducts diagnostic and biopsychosocial assessments and develops treatment and diversion programs.

He collaborates with justice system stakeholders to improve access to behavioral health services and alternative sentencing solutions. Dr. Khorozian previously worked as a Behavioral Health Social Worker with the Fulton County Public Defender's Office, where he assessed client needs and coordinated services.

He also held a leadership role as Division Chief with the San Francisco Superior Court, managing operations and contributing to strategic initiatives. He holds a Ph.D. in Positive Psychology, a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.

His professional memberships include the American Counseling Association (ACA), the American Positive Psychology Association (AMPPA), the Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA), the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Certification Board of Georgia (ADACBGA).

Dr. Khorozian has advanced certifications as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), Family Violence Intervention Specialist, and DUI Evaluator. He is recognized for his expertise in counseling techniques, assessment, diagnosis, and culturally responsive care. His work focuses on improving population health outcomes through evidence-based behavioral health programs.