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samlouie
Feb 16, 2010, 11:47 AM
I have a client who is on probation in pa. and is seeking employment as a substance abuse counselor? Are there any state laws restricting my client from working in the drug/alcohol field while he is on probation? Thank You.

JudyKayTee
Feb 16, 2010, 12:38 PM
Does this require a State license?

samlouie
Feb 16, 2010, 12:45 PM
Does this require a State license?

No. My client wanted to know if he would be permitted to work as a drug/alcohol counselor or work in a rehab in Pa. if he is still on probation for a non-violent crime. He will enroll in school soon to earn a BA in substance abuse counseling. He does not have experience yet but he would like to explore counseling by starting as a counselor assistant or a staff tech. Is this possible even though he is still on probation?

JudyKayTee
Feb 16, 2010, 01:29 PM
Unless his PO stops him (perhaps he's not allowed in the company of persons with drug/alcohol problems) if a facility will hire him he can work "there."

As far as "enrolling in school soon," this is immaterial. People have lots of plans. It's where/what he is now that counts.

After he graduates with a BA can he get a license with a criminal background? That's a question for the licensing board and should be resolved before he spends money on school, obtaining a degree which he may not be able to use.

samlouie
Feb 16, 2010, 01:34 PM
The reason I asked the question about my client being on probation is because the treatment facility where I work told me that it is a Pa. state law that a person on probation cannot work in a treatment facility anywhere in Pa. Have you ever heard that?

JudyKayTee
Feb 16, 2010, 01:36 PM
No but it wouldn't surprise me IF the probation is somehow substance abuse related.

Wherever he applies for the job will know 100%. He should ask. Or his PO will know.

samlouie
Feb 16, 2010, 01:53 PM
Actually it is not drug/alcohol related. It is for check fraud. He is in recovery now for over one year. I was trying to figure out if it is a state law or just the policy where I am employed. Thank you for your help. If you can offer anymore suggestions I would be happy to hear them.