If you've tested positive, been removed from your safety-sensitive job, or need a Substance Abuse Professional evaluation for any reason — this page explains exactly what happens next, in plain language, step by step.
Important: You cannot return to safety-sensitive work until you complete the full SAP process — including the initial evaluation, recommended treatment, follow-up evaluation, and a negative return-to-duty test. The sooner you start, the sooner you can return to work. Call Paul today at 860-502-0917.
Every step below is required by federal law (49 CFR Part 40). You cannot skip steps. I will guide you through each one!
Your employer has informed you of a positive drug or alcohol test result, a refusal to test, or another DOT regulation violation. You have been removed from your safety-sensitive duties. This is the starting point.
Your employer is required by law to provide you with a list of qualified SAPs. You have the right to choose your own SAP. Call or email me directly — I will answer your call / respond the same day!
I will conduct a comprehensive clinical assessment to evaluate the nature and extent of your substance use disorder. This is a confidential, professional evaluation — not a punishment.
Based on your clinical assessment, I will recommend a specific level of education and/or treatment. You must complete this before you can be considered for return to duty.
After you have completed the recommended education or treatment, I will conduct a follow-up evaluation to assess your progress and determine whether you are ready to return to safety-sensitive duties.
Before you can resume safety-sensitive duties, you must pass a directly observed return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test. This test is arranged by your employer.
After returning to duty, you will be placed in a follow-up testing program. This is mandatory under federal law and cannot be waived by your employer.
Paul Collette has helped many individuals navigate the SAP process. Here's what you can count on.
Paul answers and returns every call and email the same business day. When your livelihood is on the line, you shouldn't have to wait.
Your evaluation is private. Paul only shares what federal regulations require with your employer — nothing more.
I understand that positive tests happen to good people. My goal is to help you get back to work, not to judge you.
Paul moves quickly so you can return to work as soon as clinically appropriate. No unnecessary delays.
I offer competitive, transparent pricing. Ask about fees on your first call — no surprises.
Trucking, aviation, rail, transit, pipeline, maritime — and Non-DOT clients including DUI assessments and employer-required evaluations.
You do not need to work in a DOT-regulated industry to benefit from a professional substance abuse evaluation. I provide confidential, affordable assessments and counseling for individuals in all walks of life.
Court-required substance abuse evaluations following a DUI or OUI charge. I provide a thorough clinical assessment and written report accepted by CT and MA courts.
Mandated assessments ordered by a judge or probation officer as part of a criminal matter, diversion program, or condition of sentencing.
Your employer has asked you to complete a substance abuse evaluation as a condition of continued employment — even if your job is not DOT-regulated. I can help.
Seeking help on your own terms? Whether you are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) or want a voluntary evaluation, I offer compassionate, confidential counseling and therapy.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drug dependency, I offer individual therapy and counseling services in addition to formal evaluations. You do not need a court order or employer referral to reach out — confidential help is available now. Call or email me directly and I will respond the same day.
Honest answers to the questions Paul hears most often from employees going through this process.
The sooner you contact Paul, the sooner you can begin the process and get back to work. He is available for same-day consultations and virtual evaluations.