Hi @Kiersten_K
You are right, there is no way to avoid creating proof to the documents uploaded by the user/ user have access to - work and plan licenses whose permission level is Manager & supervisor above would have access to create simple and advance proof to the documents.
However, we can restrict/ have personalised layout created to users by not having them create a proofing template, by not showing up/ giving proof object.
here is something i found on Proof Permissions Profiles in Workfront Proof | Adobe Workfront
hope this is helpful.
Sujatha