Substance Abuse Professional Services
Professional guidance. Clear processes. Individual respect.
Substance Abuse Professional services provided with professionalism, clarity, and respect for the individual.
Learn about the evaluation process, applicable requirements, and the steps involved in working together.
A way forward, without judgment
If you’re here because of a positive drug or alcohol test, a refusal to test, or an issue that has interrupted your pre-employment process or ability to return to DOT-regulated work, I understand how overwhelming that can feel.
You may be worried about your job, your future, your family, or what happens next.
I want you to know that you don’t have to figure out the entire process alone.
My role as a Substance Abuse Professional is to guide you through the required evaluation process with professionalism, clarity, and compassion.
The DOT has established rules that must be followed. I take those responsibilities seriously because safety matters. But following a structured process does not mean treating someone with shame or judgment.
I see the person beyond the paperwork.
My goal is to help you understand each step, identify the education or treatment that is appropriate to your individual situation, and move through the SAP process as efficiently and responsibly as the requirements allow.
Just as importantly, I want you to leave with more than a completed requirement.
I want you to have practical knowledge, tools, and support that can help you move forward with greater awareness and avoid finding yourself in the same situation again.
What to Do First
The first step is a conversation. Call 917-482-8080 to talk through your situation and what the process would look like for you. Please contact me regarding appointment formats and availability.
SAP Professional Services Fee: $500
My fee for SAP professional services is $500. This covers the initial SAP evaluation, recommendations, follow-up evaluation, required SAP documentation and reporting, and all applicable SAP responsibilities in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. I do not charge additional SAP professional fees for completing these steps.
The $500 fee covers my SAP professional services only. Any education, treatment, or testing recommended or required as part of the return-to-duty process is separate and may involve additional costs charged by the providers or organizations responsible for those services.
SAP services follow 49 CFR Part 40 and the applicable DOT agency rules.
What is a Substance Abuse Professional?
A Substance Abuse Professional, often called a SAP, is a qualified professional who evaluates individuals who have violated U.S. Department of Transportation drug and alcohol regulations.
The SAP conducts an individualized evaluation, recommends appropriate education and/or treatment, and later determines whether the individual has demonstrated successful compliance with those recommendations.
The SAP also provides the required professional reports and follow-up testing recommendations.
The SAP process is one necessary part of the DOT return-to-duty requirements. It does not, by itself, guarantee employment or authorize someone to resume safety-sensitive duties.
What does the SAP process look like?
The initial evaluation
We begin with a comprehensive conversation and evaluation. I want to understand the circumstances, your history, and what assistance is appropriate.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions and better understand the process.
An individualized recommendation
Based on the evaluation, I recommend an appropriate course of education and/or treatment consistent with DOT requirements.
That recommendation is not identical for every person. It is determined through the assessment and must meet the applicable regulations.
Completing the recommendations
You participate in the recommended education and/or treatment and provide the necessary documentation of your participation and progress.
The follow-up evaluation
We meet again to review the documentation and determine whether you have demonstrated successful compliance with the recommendations.
Reporting and the return-to-duty requirements
I prepare the required SAP reports and, when appropriate, the follow-up testing plan for the designated employer representative.
If you demonstrate successful compliance, the employer may proceed with the remaining return-to-duty requirements, including the required test. The employer—not the SAP—decides whether to hire or return someone to safety-sensitive duties.
Follow-up testing
The employer is responsible for implementing the SAP-prescribed follow-up testing requirements after a person returns to covered safety-sensitive work. I establish the required plan, but the confidential testing schedule is not given to the employee.
Questions people often ask
I failed a pre-employment drug test. Do I need a SAP?
If the positive result or refusal was a violation under DOT-regulated testing rules, the SAP and return-to-duty requirements may apply before you can perform covered safety-sensitive work. We can clarify the applicable process based on your situation.
What if I refused a test?
A DOT-defined refusal can also trigger the return-to-duty process. I can explain the SAP evaluation and subsequent requirements.
Will I automatically need treatment?
A SAP must recommend an appropriate course of education and/or treatment. The recommendation is individualized and is based on the evaluation, not a predetermined package for everyone.
How quickly can I finish?
I understand that you want to move forward and return to work as soon as possible. I approach the process efficiently, but I cannot promise a timeline before evaluating you. The time needed depends on your individual recommendations, compliance, and the other DOT and employer requirements.
Can you guarantee I will get my job back?
No SAP can guarantee that. My responsibility is to perform the required evaluation, recommendations, follow-up assessment, and reporting. Employment decisions remain with the employer.
Will you help me understand what to do next?
Yes. I want you to feel informed throughout the SAP portion of the process and to understand what is required at each stage.
One step at a time. A way forward.
A difficult moment does not have to define your entire future.
If you need SAP services, I invite you to reach out so we can discuss the appropriate next step.
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SAPlist — Brocha Barbara Silverstein