Balancing recovery and employment can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure how to discuss treatment needs with your employer. Fortunately, both state and federal laws protect employees who seek help for mental health or substance use concerns.

At Milestone Recovery near Gilbert, we help clients navigate the process of getting treatment while maintaining their careers. Understanding your workplace rights and available accommodations can make recovery less stressful and more sustainable.

You Have the Right to Seek Help

Many people hesitate to begin treatment because they fear losing their job. However, several laws safeguard employees’ rights to seek mental health or substance use treatment confidentially and without discrimination.

Key Protections Include:

1. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
   The ADA protects employees with disabilities — including those recovering from addiction or managing mental health conditions — from workplace discrimination. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to help employees succeed during recovery.
2. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):
   Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for medical treatment — including inpatient rehab, outpatient therapy, or mental health care. You can use this time to focus fully on recovery while keeping your job secure.
3. The Rehabilitation Act:
   This law provides similar protections to the ADA but applies specifically to federal employees and organizations receiving federal funding.

Together, these laws give you the freedom to prioritize your health without sacrificing your career.

What Are “Reasonable Accommodations”?

“Reasonable accommodations” are adjustments that help employees manage their health while continuing to perform their job duties. Every situation is unique, but common examples include:

• Adjusted work hours for therapy or medical appointments
• Temporary remote work or hybrid schedules
• Modified workload or duties during treatment
• Short-term leave for intensive outpatient programs (IOP or PHP)
• Time off for medical evaluations or recovery meetings

Employers are required to engage in an interactive process — meaning they must work with you to find solutions that balance both your needs and the company’s operations.

How to Request Workplace Accommodations

Requesting support can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Here’s how to take the next step:

1. Talk to your HR department or supervisor.
   You don’t need to share personal details about your diagnosis — only that you’re requesting accommodations for a medical condition.
2. Provide documentation if needed.
   Your treatment provider can supply documentation verifying the need for accommodation without disclosing specific information about your condition.
3. Create a plan.
   Work with your employer to set a clear schedule or arrangement that supports your treatment goals while meeting work responsibilities.

At Milestone Recovery, our team can help you coordinate this process discreetly and professionally to protect your privacy.

Treatment Options That Support Working Professionals

Milestone Recovery offers flexible programs for individuals balancing treatment and career demands, including:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) — structured daytime treatment with evenings free for rest or family time.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — therapy and group sessions scheduled around work commitments.
• Telehealth services — secure virtual therapy from your home or office.

These options allow you to receive the care you need while maintaining work and personal responsibilities.

Why Gilbert Residents Choose Milestone Recovery

Milestone Recovery serves Gilbert and surrounding Valley communities including Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, and Glendale.

Our licensed clinicians specialize in addiction treatment, dual-diagnosis care, and mental health therapy designed for working adults. We provide flexible scheduling, confidentiality, and guidance through every step — from requesting accommodations to planning a smooth return to work.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery and Balance

You don’t have to choose between your job and your health. With the right workplace accommodations and professional guidance, recovery can fit into your life — not disrupt it.

At Milestone Recovery, our team will help you access evidence-based treatment while supporting your rights and privacy every step of the way.

Call today at (480) 630-7234 to schedule your free estimate!