Ocean Ridge Treatment & Recovery
Detox, Treatment, Recovery
So, you’ve made the brave decision to seek treatment for drug or alcohol use. Maybe you’ve entered a rehabilitation program, taken time off through the Medical Leave Act, or worked out a plan with your employer. But instead of support, you’ve faced pushback—or worse, retaliation. Maybe they denied reasonable accommodation, docked your sick leave, or made your job harder after you returned. If that sounds familiar, you’re probably wondering: Can they even do that? And what can I do about it?
Let’s walk through what your employee rights are during rehab—and what to do if your employer crosses the line.
If you’ve entered a drug rehabilitation program—whether inpatient or outpatient—you’re protected under both federal law and California law. Here are a few key laws that may apply:
That means your employer can’t legally fire you, cut your pay, or deny your return to work just because you went to rehab—unless it would cause an undue hardship to your employer.
If you’ve experienced any of the following, your rights may have been violated:
Here’s how you can take action if you believe your rights were violated:
Keep records of emails, conversations, medical documentation, and anything related to your drug rehabilitation program, leave time, or employer interactions. If you were asked to sign a settlement agreement, review it carefully.
Sometimes, violations happen due to a lack of understanding or training. If your company has an HR department, start there. Request to review your employee rights, company alcohol and drug rehabilitation policy, and confidentiality agreement.
If the issue isn’t resolved internally, you can file a complaint with:
Be prepared to provide your name, employer details, dates of incidents, and a telephone number where they can reach you.
Some issues—like wrongful termination, discrimination, or being denied reasonable accommodation—may require legal representation. An employment lawyer can help you understand your options and pursue monetary damages if appropriate.
Going through drug rehabilitation is hard enough without worrying about whether your employer will use it against you. Whether you’re in the middle of the recovery process, returning to work, or considering treatment, remember this: the law is on your side.
At Ocean Ridge Recovery, our premier treatment center in Orange County, CA, we not only help you get well—we advocate for your dignity as an employee and a human being. If you’re struggling with how to navigate work during rehab, we’ll walk alongside you, help you explore your treatment options, and connect you with resources that protect your rights. Reach out today to get the help you need.
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
Employers should encourage employees by maintaining confidentiality, offering clear policies, and providing access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or rehab-friendly leave policies that support recovery without stigma.
No, your participation in a rehabilitation program is protected health information, not the employer’s proprietary information. It should remain confidential unless you consent to its disclosure.
Yes, job applicants cannot be discriminated against based on past substance use or participation in rehab. Employers may not ask about past addiction unless it directly affects the ability to perform the job.
If an employee cannot return to his or her duties, employers may be required to provide reasonable accommodations—unless it causes undue hardship. A full medical release or modification of duties may be part of the return-to-work plan.
No, only covered employers—typically those with 15 or more employees (or 25+ under certain California laws)—are required to comply with FMLA, ADA, and state rehab accommodation laws.
Current employees who have met eligibility requirements (such as working a certain number of hours) generally have more access to job-protected leave, but new hires are still protected against discrimination under federal and California law.
A private employer cannot legally terminate an eligible employee for taking approved drug rehabilitation leave—especially if the leave is protected by FMLA, CFRA, or the ADA.
Signing a trade secrets or confidentiality agreement should not prevent you from taking protected leave or filing a complaint if your rights are violated. However, it’s wise to consult an employment attorney if you’re unsure.
In many cases, employers are required to reinstate you to your original position or an equivalent role after approved rehab leave, unless doing so would cause an undue hardship or your role was lawfully eliminated.
Preventing employees from taking legally protected rehab leave—whether by intimidation, misinformation, or policy violations—is against the law and can be grounds for a formal complaint or lawsuit.
Yes, substance abuse and rehabilitation rights are a highly litigated subject, especially in workplaces where employers fail to honor confidentiality, accommodation laws, or fair reinstatement practices.
Yes, experiencing sexual harassment at any point—whether during rehab-related leave or after returning to work—is a violation of your rights and should be reported. Rehab status does not diminish your legal protections.
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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