Many people put off addiction treatment because they’re worried about their job. Outpatient treatment lets you get care while you keep living at home, and federal law may protect your job if you need time off for treatment.
Can You Keep Working During Outpatient Rehab?
Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) meets several days a week, and you go home after each session. Many people continue working, sometimes with adjusted hours, while they attend treatment. Our team will work with you on a schedule that fits your life. Call (855) 668-5057 to ask about current session times.
How the FMLA Can Protect Your Job
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that gives eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for a serious health condition. Treatment for a substance use disorder provided by a health care provider can qualify. Leave can sometimes be taken intermittently or on a reduced schedule, which can work well alongside outpatient treatment.
You may be eligible if:
- Your employer has 50 or more employees within 75 miles of your worksite, or is a public agency or school
- You have worked for your employer for at least 12 months
- You have worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months
The FMLA protects leave taken for treatment. It does not protect absences caused by substance use itself. See the U.S. Department of Labor fact sheet for details.
How to Talk to Your Employer
- Check your employee handbook or ask HR about leave and medical policies
- You generally only need to share that you have a serious health condition, not your diagnosis
- Ask whether your company has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Give as much notice as you can, and ask us for any paperwork your employer requires
Take the First Step
Call (855) 668-5057 to talk with our admissions team about outpatient treatment in Colorado Springs and how it can fit around your work. Learn more about our IOP or what to expect.