Ocean Ridge Treatment & Recovery
Detox, Treatment, Recovery
If you’re thinking about starting outpatient rehab but wondering, “Will I lose my job if I take time off?”—you’re not alone. The good news is that the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) might have your back. But the rules can feel confusing, especially when you’re already overwhelmed. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
The FMLA is a federal law that gives eligible employees up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave in a 12-month period for specific reasons—including substance abuse when it’s part of a legitimate addiction treatment plan. This includes outpatient rehab, inpatient care, and continuing treatment under the supervision of a health care provider.
In other words: if your treatment is being handled by a professional and you meet the eligibility requirements, yes—FMLA leave can apply to outpatient rehab.
To be eligible, a few things need to line up. You must:
If all that checks out, the medical leave act, FMLA, could apply to your situation—even if you’re not checking into a facility full-time.
A serious health condition is a physical or mental issue that requires either ongoing treatment or renders an employee unable to perform the essential functions of their job. Substance use disorders and addiction treatment supervised by a health care provider fall under this. Conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or a chronic serious health condition tied to addiction may also qualify. So if you’re receiving regular care, attending therapy, or getting continuing treatment, you may be covered.
If you meet the FMLA eligibility requirements, your employer must allow you to take the leave—though it may be unpaid FMLA leave, unless you use vacation or sick time. You’ll likely need to submit a medical certification form signed by your health care provider confirming your physical or mental condition and treatment schedule.
And remember: this isn’t just for you. If you’re caring for a family member in treatment (including someone in foster care or a covered military member), FMLA might also apply.
Yes—this is one of the best parts of FMLA. Your time off is job-protected leave, which means your employer is legally required to hold your position or a similar one. They can’t fire you just because you’re getting help. When the employee’s FMLA entitlement ends, you’re entitled to return to his or her job, assuming you followed all the steps.
You’re not alone—this is a big step. But the law is on your side. You don’t have to disclose every detail, just that you need medical leave for a health condition. If you’re unsure how to approach it, Ocean Ridge Recovery can help you navigate the process—including understanding your rights under FMLA regulations and working with your health care provider to fill out the right paperwork. We offer luxury addiction treatment in Orange County, California, and we specialize in helping professionals who want to recover and keep their jobs.
Outpatient rehab doesn’t mean you have to put your entire life on hold. With the right information—and the right team behind you—you can take the time you need to heal while protecting your job and future. At Ocean Ridge, we help clients and their families every day understand their options and take that brave first step.
Ready to talk it through? Reach out to us today. We’re here to support you, not just through treatment—but through the real-world logistics that come with it.
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
Yes, the employee’s health care provider can confirm that outpatient rehab qualifies as a serious health condition, which is essential for securing FMLA leave.
HIPAA protects the confidentiality of your medical records, including those submitted for FMLA—ensuring your health information stays private when you’re seeking medical leave.
Yes, time spent on military duty covered under USERRA must be counted toward FMLA eligibility, which can help service members or veterans qualify for leave when they need treatment.
It means that eligible employees are guaranteed up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for qualifying health conditions, including substance abuse treatment, under federal law.
Yes, if your spouse is undergoing treatment for a serious health condition, including substance use disorder, you may qualify for FMLA leave to provide care.
FMLA is typically unpaid leave, although some employers allow or require you to use paid time off during your absence.
After an employee requests FMLA leave, they may be asked to submit a medical certification from their provider. Once approved, they are entitled to take time off without losing their job.
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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