Summary
A 39-year-old senior systems administrator, employed by a federal contractor, was evaluated for continued access to classified information. Concerns were raised under Guideline I (Psychological Conditions) and Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). Specifically, the applicant had acknowledged past alcohol use to cope with chronic pain and had been diagnosed with Somatic Symptom Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Opioid Dependence, ADHD, and Antisocial Personality Traits.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G and Guideline I were considered. However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns by demonstrating consistent compliance with his treatment plan for psychological conditions.
Favorable evaluations from qualified mental health professionals confirmed the absence of current issues related to alcohol use or psychological disorders. The applicant's history of treatment and lack of recent incidents supported a positive assessment of his reliability and trustworthiness. Consequently, eligibility for continued access to classified information was granted.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated ongoing and consistent compliance with his treatment plan for psychological conditions.
- The applicant provided favorable evaluations from qualified mental health professionals indicating no current issues with alcohol use or psychological disorders.
- The applicant's history of treatment and absence of incidents supported a favorable assessment of his reliability and trustworthiness.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 23(a)appliedTime Passed Since Problematic Behavior
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Past Alcohol Use and Actions Taken to Overcome It
- AG ¶ 23(c)appliedParticipation in Counseling and Treatment Program
- AG ¶ 29(a)appliedCondition Is Controllable with Treatment
- AG ¶ 29(b)appliedVoluntary Participation in Treatment with Favorable Prognosis
- AG ¶ 29(c)appliedRecent Opinion Indicating Condition Is Under Control
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedNo Indication of Current Problem
Key rule quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the criteria contained in the adjudicative guidelines.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedFeb 4, 2022
- Answer filedFeb 22, 2022
- Hearing held—Decision made based on written record.
- Decision dateNov 22, 2022
Cite for
- Mitigation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Mitigation of Alcohol Consumption Issues Under Guideline G
- Whole-person Assessment in Security Clearance Determinations