Ocean Ridge Treatment & Recovery
Detox, Treatment, Recovery
If you’re navigating substance abuse while trying to maintain your career, access public support, or get help through a treatment program, you might wonder: Do I have rights? The answer is yes—and they’re protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The ADA is a powerful civil rights law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination in many areas of public life, including employment, access to local government services, and participation in commercial facilities and state and local government programs. And importantly—it can apply to individuals in substance abuse recovery.
At Ocean Ridge Recovery, we believe education is a critical part of healing. So let’s break down what the ADA covers, what it doesn’t, and how it can protect your rights during treatment and beyond.
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes a wide range of conditions, from chronic health disorders to mental illnesses—and, in many cases, substance use disorders.
The ADA covers individuals in recovery who are not currently engaging in illegal drug use and who are participating in or have completed a supervised rehabilitation program. This means if you’re receiving addiction treatment, you may qualify for legal protection under the ADA.
Title I protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace and applies to private employers, employment agencies, labor unions, and state and local governments with 15 or more employees. It requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation if a condition like a substance use disorder makes it difficult to perform essential job functions—so long as the individual is otherwise qualified.
Examples of reasonable accommodations may include:
Title II applies to state and local governments, ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to public programs, transportation, and local government services. This includes access to local government programs that may involve housing, vocational training, or public education.
Title III focuses on accessibility in commercial facilities such as treatment centers, hospitals, schools, and businesses open to the public. It requires these entities to provide accommodations and modifications that enable full participation by individuals with disabilities, including those in recovery.
While the disabilities act offers broad protection, there are limitations. The ADA does not protect individuals who are currently using illegal drugs, even if they have a history of substance use disorder. Additionally, protections may not apply if drug or alcohol use results in threats to workplace safety or prevents someone from fulfilling essential job functions.
Employers and state or local law may have additional policies in place, but the ADA sets the minimum legal standard. It’s also important to note that the federal government and agencies like the Federal Communications Commission must also uphold non-discrimination policies under federal financial assistance regulations.
At Ocean Ridge Recovery, we understand the intersection between addiction treatment and legal protection. Our team is here to:
Whether you’re concerned about discrimination, job protection, or access to care, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Recovery is not just about detox or therapy—it’s about reclaiming your dignity, autonomy, and future. The ADA exists to protect you, ensure fairness, and remove barriers so you can heal and thrive. Contact Ocean Ridge Recovery today to learn more about how we can help you access the care you deserve while navigating your legal rights with clarity and confidence.
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities, including those in recovery from substance use disorders, from discrimination. If you are no longer using illegal drugs and are engaged in or have completed treatment, the ADA may protect your right to employment, access to public entities, and reasonable accommodations during your recovery process.
Yes, most private schools are considered public accommodations under Title III of the ADA and must comply with accessibility and non-discrimination standards. This includes making modifications and providing equal access to students recovering from substance abuse or managing other disabilities.
The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice is responsible for enforcing Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act. They investigate complaints related to state or local government services, public entities, and private businesses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive equal access and protection under the law.
Yes, intrastate telecommunications relay services must be ADA-compliant, particularly under Title IV of the ADA. These services ensure individuals with hearing or speech disabilities have equal access to telephone communication and are typically overseen by both federal and state or local government agencies.
Public entities, including state or local government agencies, are required under Title II of the ADA to provide accessible services, programs, and facilities. This includes making reasonable modifications and accommodations for individuals recovering from substance abuse or with other qualifying disabilities.
Yes, individuals who use a service animal due to a disability—including mental health or medical conditions related to substance use—are protected under the ADA. Public entities and private treatment centers must allow service animals unless doing so would fundamentally alter the nature of the service or pose a safety risk.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces Title I of the American Disabilities Act, ensuring that qualified individuals—including those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction—are not discriminated against in hiring, promotion, or workplace accommodations. The EEOC ensures equal employment opportunity by investigating complaints and holding employers accountable.
The ADA prohibits discrimination based on a person’s physical or mental disability, including individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. This means employers, public entities, and service providers cannot deny access, accommodations, or opportunities solely because of a qualifying disability.
Under the ADA, a direct threat refers to a significant risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of the individual or others that cannot be eliminated or reduced by a reasonable accommodation. Employers must base this determination on objective medical evidence—not assumptions or stereotypes—and assess each situation individually.
The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 broadened the definition of disability to ensure more people are protected under the law. It clarified that conditions like substance use disorders in recovery and other episodic or mitigating conditions still qualify, even if the condition is not active at all times. The amendments reinforced that the ADA prohibits discrimination based on a wide range of impairments.
Bobby Nassiri is a seasoned Program Director and Business Development Director with over 12 years of experience in the behavioral health industry. Since earning his CADCII counselor certification in 2017, Bobby has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals through compassionate care and innovative program development. Bobby’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including strategic business growth, program management, and client counseling. His comprehensive approach to behavioral health ensures that every program he directs is both effective and empathetic, catering to the unique needs of each individual client. Outside of his professional endeavors, Bobby enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, practicing Brazilian jiu jitsu, and attending concerts. His diverse interests and commitment to personal well-being reflect his holistic approach to life and work.
So, you’ve decided to go to rehab. You’ve figured out where you want to go. You’ve figured out how to pay for it. You’ve figured out what to do about your job. Everything is falling into place except…
Failing a drug test can be a stressful and life-changing event, especially if it happens at work. Drug tests are often required by employers to maintain a safe and productive work environment. But if you fail, it could lead to consequences that impact your job and future opportunities.
Whether for mental health or drug abuse, seeing recovery is a courageous and important choice. But a lot of workers put off getting help because they’re concerned that it will affect their jobs.
Going to rehab can be a powerful experience. Here, you’re giving yourself the chance to pick up a new set of tools that will allow you to proactively deal with life, addiction, and cravings. At the same time, moving to rehab can be an incredibly lonely experience as you leave friends, family, and your home behind.
Leaving rehab can be daunting. The transition back into everyday life feels overwhelming for many in early recovery. Sober living homes can provide the vital support and structure needed to navigate this challenging yet crucial stage of your journey.
Addiction recovery is a tough journey, and it often takes a unique approach to tackle the physical and mental challenges of substance abuse. One exciting and effective method making waves in addiction recovery: Jiu Jitsu.
At Ocean Ridge, we understand that the demanding schedules, high-stress environments, and physical demands of a job at BNSF Railway can contribute to substance use issues. Our mission is to provide compassionate, effective treatment tailored to the needs of BNSF Railway employees, helping them reclaim their lives from addiction.
At Ocean Ridge, we get it—balancing a high-pressure career while seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Executive Treatment program is here to make things easier, offering top-tier care in a private, confidential setting.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment. That’s why finding a rehab tailored to professionals is crucial.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment.
Now, more than ever, our friends, family, and loved ones need medical help for drug and alcohol abuse.
In fact, in 2020, 40.3 million Americans struggled with a substance use disorder. Our friends, family, and loved ones need help and compassionate care from quality drug and alcohol rehab centers.
The admissions process for Ocean Ridge Treatment and Recovery is quick and convenient. Our Drug Rehab and Alcohol Rehab programs are modern, effective, and based in clinical excellence.
The Georgia Sue house is a gorgeous six-bed facility in Laguna Hills that boasts a warm, upscale environment created to help our clients feel at home during their recovery journey.
The Del Campo House is a six-bed facility in beautiful San Clemente that offers clients both privacy and community. Surrounded by gorgeous natural views, this space provides those seeking help for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders with everything they need to feel relaxed, supported and empowered.
For individuals seeking freedom from substance use, Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offers a free, compassionate and supportive community. With its emphasis on the 12-step framework, NA meetings in Orange County, CA provide recovering addicts with the tools and encouragement they need to achieve and maintain sobriety.
For many, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a vital foundation for recovering from alcohol addiction. With its supportive community, structured program, and proven success, AA provides alcoholics with the tools and encouragement they need to stop drinking and rebuild their lives.
Drug testing is a common practice in many industries to ensure workplace safety, compliance with regulations, and employee productivity. Employers across a variety of sectors often require drug tests during the hiring process, after an accident, or at random intervals to maintain a safe and drug-free work environment.
#300391BP | exp 08/31/2025
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