Sobriety requirements for a Substance Abuse Professional?

Published January 9, 2011

Question by kuf99ver3: Sobriety requirements for a Substance Abuse Professional?
I have had interest in becoming a drug and alcohol addiction counselor or something along those lines, and I found out to become a SAP is quite easy, and it seems to be just what I was looking to get into. However, I was wondering if you are expected to abstain from alcohol and all recreational drug use or if you are simply expected to be addiction free. I have never been addicted to alcohol or any drug. I am still young and like to party here and there and would be disappointed if I would have to give it all up to get into this profession.
Well I definitely would not talk about my partying/personal life, I was curious if they went as far as to possibly drug test the SAPs? Or is it not that big of a deal as long as they are doing their job well?

Best answer:

Answer by student of life
no you do not have to abstain from moderate to social drinking, but in this instance you have to be careful because this is how addictions start… you will be more respected if you can practice what you are teaching/preaching…

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