SAP Evaluation Florida – DOT Substance Abuse Programs 2024

SAP Evaluation Florida

When a Department of Transportation (DOT) regulated employee refuses a drug/alcohol test or tests positive for any substance, they are required to complete the Return-to-Duty process before returning to work. The first step in the process is to be evaluated by a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional also known as an SAP evaluator.

When meeting with a Substance Abuse Professional they will undergo an evaluation and assessment. The substance abuse professional that you meet with is a critical part to the SAP evaluation because they have extensive experience in substance use diagnosis and treatment. Their job is to ensure you have the tools to safely return to work after a failed drug test.

Usually, the employer provides a list of certified SAP evaluators but you can also do research and contact your own SAP evaluator as long as they are DOT certified. During the evaluation, the evaluator will look over your case, have you complete one or more assessment tools and ask a variety of personal questions to get more information. These questions are harmless and geared towards helping you get back to work so there is no need to be nervous.

Your best bet is to answer the questions honestly, just like you would in a therapy session or a conversation with a friend. After your SAP evaluation, your evaluator will outline a plan for your Return-to-Duty process which in most cases includes a unique treatment plan. This may include substance abuse awareness classes, individual counseling, or whatever level of care is appropriate for your individual case. They will refer you to places where you can complete the required education and/or treatment.

Once the education and/or treatment recommendations have been completed, you will go through a final evaluation, which usually consists of a urinalysis, to assess your readiness for job re-entry.

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.