Deciding to go to rehab is one of the bravest—and most important—choices you can make. But for many people, the fear of losing their job makes that decision harder. If you’ve been wondering, “What happens to my job if I go to treatment?”, you’re not alone. Many who seek to attend a rehab program wonder about job protection during rehab and if there are any laws, especially in Michigan, to help with job security.,

The good news is that there are laws that protect you when you choose to seek help. At Liberty House Outpatient Center, we often hear this concern from clients, and we want you to know that Michigan rehab job protection laws exist to help you recover without sacrificing your livelihood.

Here’s what you should know before taking that next step toward healing.

Understanding the ADA and Job Protection During Rehab

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prevents workplace discrimination against people with disabilities—including those in recovery from substance use disorders.

What the ADA Means for You

• If you’ve decided to enter treatment, the ADA protects you from being fired or denied employment simply because you’re seeking help.
  
• Employers must provide reasonable accommodations while you’re in treatment. This could include flexible scheduling or time off to attend outpatient sessions.
  

What the ADA Doesn’t Cover

• The ADA doesn’t protect employees who are currently using illegal substances on the job or whose substance use affects workplace safety.
  
• Once you’ve stopped using and entered treatment, however, you are protected as a person in recovery.
  

This law recognizes that seeking help is an act of responsibility—not a reason for punishment.

How the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Provides Michigan Workers with Job Protection During Rehab

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is another powerful protection for employees who need time away from work to focus on their health. FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for medical or family-related reasons—including substance use treatment. Michigan laws for job protection are always dependent on qualifying factors, which is important to look into before relying on these kinds of provisions.

Who Qualifies for FMLA?

You’re eligible if:

• You work for an employer with at least 50 employees within 75 miles.
  
• You’ve been with your company for at least 12 months.
  
• You’ve logged at least 1,250 hours of work in the past year.
  

How FMLA Helps During Rehab

• You can step away from work for outpatient or inpatient rehab without fear of losing your job.
  
• Your employer must continue your health insurance coverage during your leave.
  

While FMLA leave is unpaid, it offers the peace of mind that your job will still be waiting for you when treatment is complete. Documentation from your provider—such as Liberty House Outpatient Center—can be used to confirm the medical necessity of your treatment if your employer requests it.

Michigan Laws That Safeguard Employees in Recovery

In addition to federal protections, Michigan has its own law—the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act (PWDCRA)—which expands workplace protections.

Under the PWDCRA:

• Employers cannot discriminate against someone seeking addiction treatment.
  
• They must make reasonable accommodations, such as adjusting therapy session schedules or granting time off for rehab.
  
• Michigan’s legal framework works alongside the ADA and FMLA, reinforcing that treatment for addiction is a medical necessity—not a personal failure. This means you can start outpatient treatment in Michigan without having to choose between your job and your recovery.

Your Role as an Employee

While these laws are designed to protect you, it’s still important to approach the process responsibly and with transparency.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Be Honest (If You Can): When possible, tell your employer you’re seeking treatment. Many workplaces have HR teams trained to handle medical leave requests with confidentiality.
  
• Know Your Rights: Read up on the ADA, FMLA, and Michigan’s PWDCRA to understand which protections apply to you.
  
• Keep Records: Provide any requested documentation from your treatment provider to ensure compliance with company policy.
  

Remember, recovery is a health issue—not a moral one. Seeking treatment shows courage and self-awareness, and more employers today recognize that supporting recovery benefits everyone.

Why Job Protection During Rehab Matters for Recovery

Having job stability can make a world of difference in your healing process. Knowing your employment is protected reduces stress, keeps you financially secure, and allows you to focus fully on treatment.

At Liberty House Outpatient Center, we go beyond therapy sessions—we help clients balance recovery with real-life responsibilities. Whether it’s coordinating schedules, providing documentation for FMLA, or connecting you with community support, our team stands beside you through every step of your journey.

Recovery is about rebuilding all parts of your life—your health, your relationships, and your career.

Begin Outpatient Addiction Treatment in Michigan

If you’re ready to seek help but worried about your job, take a deep breath—you have rights, and you have options. Laws like the ADA, FMLA, and Michigan’s PWDCRA are in place to protect your employment while you focus on healing.

At Liberty House Outpatient Center in Oakland County, Michigan, we offer flexible, evidence-based outpatient programs that let you maintain your work responsibilities while receiving the care you need.

Don’t let fear stand between you and your recovery. Call Liberty House today or fill out our confidential inquiry form to learn more about how we can support you. Your job can wait—your health and your future can’t.