How Can I Become a SAP?

Are you looking to become a SAP to help those suffering from substance use disorders and keep the general public safe? Substance use disorder is a prevalent issue affecting more than “20 million Americans ages 12 and over” and many of these people are trying to function to hold jobs and maintain normal lives.

Federally-regulated employees who perform safety-sensitive duties are required to remain drug and/or alcohol free since their functions directly impact the health and well-being of the general public, their colleagues, and themselves. Failure to adhere to safety-sensitive regulations puts everyone in danger. The return to duty process relies on SAPs to ensure that employees who fail drug and alcohol tests get the help they need before they’re eligible to return to safety-sensitive work.

What Is a Substance Abuse Professional?

A SAP is a Substance Abuse Professional. These are qualified professionals who have undergone DOT training and testing. They perform the initial evaluation on employees who have failed their workplace drug and/or alcohol test. After conducting the initial evaluation, the SAP will recommend treatment and/or education. The SAP will also perform a follow-up evaluation, refer the employee to submit to a return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test if compliance has been met, develop follow-up testing protocols, and provide the employee and the employer with continuing support recommendations.

What Are the Benefits of Becoming a SAP?

A Substance Abuse Professional plays a crucial role in supporting for DOT-mandated, safety-sensitive employees. Employees who abuse drugs and alcohol while on the job or in opposition to their workplace policies put safety in jeopardy. Many counseling professionals seek qualification as a SAP in order to expand their practice as well as their income.

What Qualifications Must a SAP Professional Meet?

The U.S. Department of Transportation developed the Substance Abuse Professional position and outlined its requirements and qualifications. In order to become a SAP, you must already possess a license or credential as a physician, psychologist, social worker, employee assistance professional, marriage and family therapist, or drug and alcohol counselor certified by IC&RC/NAADAC/NBCC.

Get in touch with us to learn more about SAP Referral Services network. If you qualify as a SAP you may want to join us and we look forward to helping you build your practice.