Is an addictions counselor permitted to use controlled substances when they have a day off?

Is an addictions counselor permitted to use controlled substances when they have a day off?

• A. No.
• B. Yes, if prescribed by a physician.
• C. Yes, during personal time.
• D. Only if they are out of work.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining safety and trust in treatment hinges on being free from impairment at all times. An addictions counselor must think clearly, respond appropriately to client needs, and maintain consistent boundaries. Using controlled substances, even on a day off, can impair judgment, reduce reliability, and undermine the therapeutic relationship. Ethical codes and licensure standards emphasize ongoing impairment-free practice, and the expectation is that such substances should not be used in a way that could affect professional performance. Therefore, the best answer is that an addictions counselor should not use controlled substances, regardless of time off. The other options imply exceptions that would risk client safety and violate professional standards.

Maintaining safety and trust in treatment hinges on being free from impairment at all times. An addictions counselor must think clearly, respond appropriately to client needs, and maintain consistent boundaries. Using controlled substances, even on a day off, can impair judgment, reduce reliability, and undermine the therapeutic relationship. Ethical codes and licensure standards emphasize ongoing impairment-free practice, and the expectation is that such substances should not be used in a way that could affect professional performance. Therefore, the best answer is that an addictions counselor should not use controlled substances, regardless of time off. The other options imply exceptions that would risk client safety and violate professional standards.