Choosing a Substance Abuse Professional: Tips for DERs
As a Designated Employer Representative (DER), you have an important role in helping commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders who have violated drug and alcohol testing policies get back into compliance. One key aspect of this process is selecting a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) to work with the individual. If you’re looking for a good SAP to support CDL holders in your organization, consider TheDOTSAP.com. Our team of qualified and experienced SAPs has a track record of helping CDL holders overcome substance abuse and addiction and get back into compliance. Here are some additional tips for choosing a good SAP:
Look for qualifications and credentials: A good SAP should have the necessary qualifications and credentials, such as a master’s degree in a related field (e.g., social work, psychology, counseling), certification from a professional organization (e.g., International Certification Reciprocity Consortium, Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling Certification Board, International Employee Assistance Professionals Association etc.), and experience working with CDL holders.
Consider their approach and style: It is important to find a SAP who has an approach and style that is appropriate for your organization and the individual CDL holder. Do they have a supportive, non-judgmental approach? Do they offer a variety of treatment and education options? Do they have a good reputation and reviews from past clients?
Consider their availability and accessibility: A good SAP should be available and accessible to you and the CDL holder when you need them. Do they offer flexible appointment times and locations? Do they have a clear process for communication and follow-up?
Check their references: Ask the SAP for references from past clients or colleagues, and consider reaching out to them to get a sense of the SAP’s work and reputation.
By looking for qualifications and credentials, considering their approach and style, checking their availability and accessibility, and checking their references, you can increase your chances of finding a good SAP to help CDL holders resolve drug and alcohol violations and get back into compliance. At TheDOTSAP.com, we offer all of these qualities and more, and we are dedicated to helping CDL holders overcome substance abuse and addiction and return to duty safely and responsibly.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your organization and the CDL holders in your care.
Perry deLapouyade, SAP/LAC/ICADC/CAC