Military veterans pursuing further educational advancement amid ongoing adjustment to civilian life embark on a unique journey marked by a range of challenges in their personal and academic settings. A key factor associated with the overall positive outcomes experienced by student veterans in graduate rehabilitation counseling programs is the relational dynamics among their nonveteran peers and faculty members. The present study aims to explore the perspectives of student veterans and the types of relational experiences they encountered to inform graduate programs and, in turn, create more opportunities for inclusion and support. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, 33 student veterans’ responses were analyzed, highlighting how well they related to their civilian peers, faculty members, and the overall context of their interactions, coded into three overarching themes (i.e., positive, neutral, or negative [disconnection] connections). While participants had a diversity of experience, most neutral in nature, some shared negative experiences linked to their veteran identity. Findings illustrate that student veterans’ experiences are diverse, and adequately addressing potential challenges requires a combination of cultural competence, opportunities promoting peer inclusion and engagement, and relevant support initiatives.
Developing appropriate task analyses for public transportation for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is necessary in order to maintain and promote independent living and employment outcomes. Understanding the number of sessions it takes to achieve independent public transportation is important to adequately allocate time and resources to services for both the program and the individual. The current study examined the optimal number of sessions to achieve independence on a public transportation task analysis across individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities via a meta-analysis of area under the curve values from receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. Results indicated that after approximately 11 sessions of total task training on public transportation, there was a point of diminishing returns. In effect, after approximately 11 sessions, an individual may need to change or modify the task analyses. The current study demonstrates how ROC curves may be used to evaluate task analyses more broadly when considering the number of sessions to a criterion.
Individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) often face obstacles to obtaining employment. Although employment leads to positive outcomes for individuals with SUDs, these individuals still experience low employment rates, which employers’ perspectives may influence. Using a hierarchical regression analysis, this quantitative study analyzed various personal and business characteristics that impact employers’ perspectives when hiring individuals in recovery. Participants were 382 employers identified through a convenience sample. Of the participants, 51% were male and 49% were female. The findings indicate a negative relationship between employers’ levels of concern regarding individuals in recovery, personal characteristics, and business-related characteristics. Moreover, there was a correlation between the level of concern among employers and their previous experiences with individuals with SUDs. A discussion of implications for the field, vocational rehabilitation consumers, and employers, as well as considerations for future research, concludes the article.
There are several assertions made in the Reid et al. article that are inaccurate and mischaracterized and reflect some critical gaps in the history and context of CACREP standards revision process and the CACREP-CORE merger. CACREP seeks to provide clarification on the CACREP standards revision process and of the emergence of two Rehabilitation Counseling specialized practice areas. From this historical context, CACREP presents an assessment of the Counseling profession at the present time with respect to the current perception of the profession, the economic realities of counselor education, and the consequences of choices made. Given the history and the present circumstances, CACREP offers considerations for a path forward and developing actionable next steps.
The increasing integration of digital tools into vocational rehabilitation (VR) service delivery has reshaped counselor roles, creating both opportunities and challenges for job satisfaction and workforce retention. This study examined how technology-related attitudes, motivation, perceived digital barriers, and organizational support predict job satisfaction among 296 VR counselors in state and community rehabilitation settings. Hierarchical regression analysis assessed the unique contribution of each predictor beyond demographic characteristics. Organizational support for digital technology use emerged as by far the strongest predictor (β = .30, p < .001), followed by optimism toward technology (β = .17, p < .05) and years of experience (β = .14, p < .05). Technological proficiency showed a negative association in the final model (β = –.15, p < .05). The final model accounted for 23% of the variance in job satisfaction, with organizational support attenuating the effects of motivation and perceived barriers. Findings underscore that digital transformation in VR requires more than technological upgrades. It depends on cultivating an organizational climate that values, equips, and empowers staff. Leadership engagement, resource provision, and clear communication can enhance counselor resilience, mitigate strain from new responsibilities, and sustain positive work attitudes. Policies should integrate infrastructure investments with organizational development to ensure that counselors are prepared and supported to deliver high-quality, equitable services in digitally evolving environments.
Improving postschool outcomes for individuals with disabilities is a critical issue in workforce development and social inclusion. Employment plays a vital role in ensuring economic stability, independence, and social integration. However, despite legislative protections and workforce initiatives, employment disparities persist. Employer characteristics such as company size, industry type, and geographic region significantly impact hiring decisions related to individuals with disabilities. This study therefore aimed to examine the business factors influencing employer perceptions toward hiring, recruiting, and retaining individuals with disabilities. Specifically, the study explored how employer size, structure, industry, geographic region, respondent role, and hiring difficulties impact disability employment practices. The findings contribute to a growing body of literature that examines the role of business size, industry type, geographic region, and hiring challenges in shaping employer decisions regarding employment for individuals with disabilities. The findings reinforce previous research suggesting that company size, industry type, and workforce shortages are significant predictors of disability hiring practices and indicate a need for targeted outreach efforts focused on engaging small and medium-sized businesses, the importance of considering individuals with disabilities as part of recruitment strategies for employers facing hiring difficulties and labor shortages, and a need for targeted policy interventions and employer education efforts. This study contributes to the broader effort to reduce workforce disparities and create meaningful job opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Large case volumes have been related to work-related stress among vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors, leading to ineffective counseling services. Using recent survey data of VR counselors linked with their clients’ records, we examined the impact of counselors’ case volume on clients’ employment outcomes at the exit of counseling programs. The overall successful closure rate (clients being employed) was 33%, and the high-quality closure rate (clients obtaining full-time or living wage jobs) was 23.5%. A nonlinear pattern was observed between counselors’ case volume and clients’ employment outcomes. Counselors with a moderate case volume (36–50 cases closed per year) had the highest successful closure rate compared with either lower or higher case volume groups. After adjusting for both clients’ and counselors’ characteristics, counselors with 51–75 cases closed per year had a 3.6% lower overall closure rate ( p = .03) and a 3.4% lower high-quality closure rate ( p = .02) than those with 36–50 cases per year. State VR agencies should be conscientious about counselors’ case volume to prevent turnover of counselors. Counselors need proper training in caseload management to ensure the best counseling services.
The purpose of this article is to present practice-based evidence of the transition to competitive integrated employment using person-driven planning. Not a program, the use of active person-driven planning pivots on teaching and practicing self-advocacy and self-determination. Different from person-centered approaches, person-driven planning amplifies the voices of individuals with disabilities and assists their parents, families, and support team members to advocate for them. In person-driven planning, the use of culturally appropriate and engaging formats is emphasized that from the person’s perspective are reachable, accessible, and personalized. With person-driven education and counseling, the person and their family are directly impacted through having informed choices, support for decision-making, and a person-driven plan (PDP) to link to other individualized plans such as developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Individualized Plans for Employment (IPEs). Legal precedents, descriptions, and discussion are offered with the overall goal of reinforcing a shift in language and practices. Highlighted in this article are exemplary person-driven planning experiences that actualize the legislative precedents and represent the shifts in language and practices needed to support human rights. The results dispel myths regarding process, predictability, and time with suggestions to overcome the limitations of traditional readiness, capacity, and/or other value-based assessments as well as the restrictions of individualized approaches. Operations are shared for moving from person-centered to person-driven planning for maximizing relational autonomy, building working alliances, using resources collaboratively, and demonstrating the risks are outweighed by the benefits to everyone.
The rapid digital transformation across various sectors has underscored the importance of technology adoption, particularly within government organizations, to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery. In the field of vocational rehabilitation (VR) counseling, digital tools offer significant potential to improve client engagement and service access. However, technology adoption among VR counselors varies widely, influenced by factors such as personal attitudes and perceived technological efficacy. This study aimed to validate the Technology Adoption Propensity Index (TAPI) within a sample of VR counselors working at state-federal VR agencies. The TAPI assesses technology adoption propensity across four dimensions: optimism, proficiency, dependence, and vulnerability. Using confirmatory factor analysis and examining correlations with related constructs, the study evaluated the reliability and validity of the TAPI in this unique context. Results confirmed the four-factor structure, with each dimension demonstrating acceptable reliability and distinct associations with motivation to use digital tools, core self-evaluations, and age. Findings suggest that promoting optimism and proficiency could enhance intrinsic motivation for technology adoption among VR counselors while addressing concerns about privacy, security, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. This study provides a foundation for targeted interventions to support technology integration within state VR agencies, ultimately advancing the efficacy of services for individuals with disabilities.
Judith (Judy) Heumann’s leadership and relationships were vital to the Disability Rights Movement and the signing of subsequent laws resulting in mandates that protect people from discrimination due to disability in the United States. With the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the passing of Judy Heumann in 2023, there is timeliness in memorializing her contributions to the monumental collaborative efforts leading to the signing of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and her continued leadership. The purpose of this article is to put forth the self-reported reactions of and impacts on professionals who participated in the interdisciplinary Heumannizing Transition: A Collaborate for Change summits held in 2020 and 2023. Using a Legal and Ethical Decision-Making Framework, the conceptual influences of figured worlds, relational autonomy, and positionality, we underscore the integrated connection participants have to themselves, their profession, the broader societal ecosystem, and ultimately the past. Multiple data sources were analyzed with qualitative methods in an iterative, longitudinal, reflective, and visualized process. Deeper impacts included reconstruction and reconsideration of agency, identity, and disability. Recommendations are provided for supporting individual growth through building broader shared understanding of disability and intentionally using collaborative and reflective learning processes to support personal growth and professional fulfillment for people with and without disabilities.
This article investigates the dual role of social media as both a beneficial and a harmful tool for teens with disabilities (TWDs), emphasizing its impact on identity formation, self-expression, and community engagement. Social media platforms provide TWDs with opportunities for autonomy and empowerment, offering an avenue to connect with peers, share personal stories, and engage in self-advocacy. However, the same platforms pose significant risks, including cyberbullying, loss of privacy, and problematic social media use. The article highlights rehabilitation professionals’ need to understand these underlying forces, ensuring that TWDs can leverage social media’s benefits while minimizing its adverse effects. By reviewing existing frameworks, such as the Kaye framework for social media usage, and introducing a novel construct of optimal social media use, the article delineates strategies for effective social media engagement. Key recommendations include adopting harm reduction approaches and employing cognitive behavioral therapy to address behavioral addictions. The article calls for further research to deepen understanding and improve interventions tailored to TWDs, equipping them to navigate their digital environments safely and effectively. Ultimately, a balanced perspective on social media usage is advocated, recognizing the need to foster a digital space that supports TWDs’ well-being and personal growth. This article serves as a comprehensive resource for professionals aiming to guide TWDs in harnessing social media as a tool for positive development while safeguarding against potential harm.
For students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the transition from secondary to postsecondary education presents significant challenges in acquiring and utilizing academic accommodations. Self-advocacy skills are essential for successfully navigating these educational environments. Rehabilitation counselors are in a unique position to provide supports such as self-advocacy instruction to improve postsecondary outcomes for their clients. This study investigated the impact of self-advocacy and conflict resolution (SACR) instruction, taught in a small-group setting, on the ability of three college students with SLD and/or ADHD to request and negotiate academic accommodations. Using a single-subject, multiple-probe, A = baseline, B = intervention, and C = generalization/maintenance (ABC) design, findings indicated an increase in level and trend between SACR instruction and students’ improved accommodation requests during role-play and generalization conditions with a percentage of nonoverlapping data of 100% (p = .0025) for all participants. Social validity data indicated that participants found that the intervention helped them explain their needs, better understand their disabilities, and value the small-group format. Implications for rehabilitation counselors supporting postsecondary transitions and providing pre-enrollment preparation services are discussed, along with practical implementation strategies in vocational rehabilitation settings. Limitations and suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Medically debilitated patients treated in inpatient medical rehabilitation facilities, compared with those who do not receive these services, have better overall outcomes following hospital stays. A common way patients’ level of independence is assessed is by measuring and tracking Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores. Utilizing FIM scores, this retrospective cohort study examines the impact on patients’ functional independence when a rehabilitation counseling psychologist introduced an interprofessional component. This collaborative component included psychotherapeutic interventions with both the patient and the family systems as needed, and providing in-services, coaching, and consultations to staff. It also included attending team and family conferences and co-treating interprofessionally across disciplines in the therapy gymnasium. To assess whether the added component made a difference, outcome reports of 1,818 discharges from the inpatient unit were analyzed. Data included the year prior to implementation of the consulting psychology interprofessional component and data from 2 years following its implementation. T tests were run to assess for differences in FIM scores. FIM scores following the implementation of the interprofessional component were higher than scores prior to the implementation of the variable. Findings suggest a positive correlation between integrating an interprofessional rehabilitation counseling psychology component into the rehabilitation process and increasing patients’ functional independence.
Evidence-based practices are utilized in vocational rehabilitation and rehabilitation counseling when providing services. This study aims to articulate practices related to evidence-based practice and present literature-based definitions for these practices in the field. The research explored evidence-based and related practices, definitions presented, and a model to represent their relationships. A scoping review, conducted as a metasynthesis, was used to identify primary sources defining evidence-based and related practices in these fields. Results revealed that evidence-based practice, first associated with vocational rehabilitation in 1998, originated from evidence-based medicine and mental health disciplines. Since then, nine additional nonevidence-based practices have emerged, including unestablished, strengths-based, best, evidence-based best, research-based, emerging, promising, and value-based practices. The review found that the best practices are the most common, though many lack empirical validation. A hierarchical model was developed to illustrate the relationships among these practices. The study concluded that the literature lacks consistent definitions of evidence-based and related practices, which undermines the empirical integrity of vocational rehabilitation and rehabilitation counseling. The dominance of loosely defined best practices highlights the need for future research to validate individual practices through rigorous experimental methods.
In this qualitative study, we gathered the perspectives of workforce development professionals, employers, and substance use treatment providers on the employment needs of individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and the feasibility of using the Barriers to Employment Success Inventory (BESI) to support these individuals to enter or re-enter the workforce. Using a purposive approach to sampling, 33 individuals were recruited, with 6 participating in an interview and 27 participating in a focus group. Rapid qualitative analysis was used to review the transcripts. Access to basic resources (e.g., housing, transportation, childcare, work-appropriate clothing, a computer and internet connectivity, and training opportunities) was a major barrier to employment. Due to the significance of this barrier, the BESI, while potentially useful for individuals with OUD, might not be appropriate or helpful to use when basic needs are unmet. This finding suggests that workforce development assessments and interventions for people with OUD should integrate a comprehensive evaluation, including access to basic resources as access may impact employment stability. Additional considerations for the use of the BESI with individuals with OUD are also provided.
The demand for vocational rehabilitation transition services is growing, resulting in greater attention to rehabilitation professionals’ participation. Meeting the service needs of the transition-age population requires that rehabilitation professionals address change and sometimes completely new expectations. Collaboration with secondary educators is among these expectations, as is working with students and parents. Yet coordinated collaboration among rehabilitation professionals is needed to maximize the use of resources for effectiveness. In this mixed-methods investigation, rehabilitation professionals’ reasons for participation in transition education and services are described as distinctive ways in which they can assist and collaborate with each other. Recommendations include attention to, training for, and research on collaboration among rehabilitation professionals, in addition to collaboration with students/youth and their families, as well as educators. These findings can be used for connecting the secondary preparation and planning process with activities leading to postsecondary outcomes. This research advances the transition-specific collaboration discussion to more commonly and intentionally include all rehabilitation professionals participating in transition, such as transition specialists, community rehabilitation providers, and Centers for Independent Living personnel.
As the popularity of gambling grows, so too does the incidence of people developing problems related to their gambling. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual fifth edition (DSM-V), gambling disorder (GD) is defined as persistent and problematic gambling that leads to significant impairment or distress. GD is the first behavioral addiction (nonsubstance-related addiction) recognized by the DSM-V due to its shared characteristics with substance use disorders. While other addictive disorders are recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as amended, those experiencing gambling addiction have been directly excluded from services and supports associated with the anticipated ADA benefits of increased access, inclusion, and equity. This lack of inclusion is fast becoming a chronic service need in many communities as legalized gambling opportunities become ubiquitous. In this article, the ramifications of exclusions are explored for individuals and their families experiencing GD and why the ADA should be amended.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) often leads to significant disruptions in vestibular function—a vital sensory system that plays a key role in balance, spatial orientation, and visual stability. Following a TBI, damage to the vestibular system can result in a range of persistent symptoms, including chronic dizziness, balance issues, visual disturbances, and even communication challenges. These impairments stem from the brain’s compromised ability to accurately process sensory information necessary for maintaining spatial orientation and postural stability. Healthy vestibular function is crucial for coordinated movement, spatial awareness, and smooth, effective communication. This system enables the brain to integrate sensory inputs from the inner ear, eyes, and proprioceptive receptors, allowing for a coherent understanding of body position and movement in space. When vestibular function is compromised, individuals may experience ongoing difficulties in daily activities, affecting their overall quality of life and autonomy. This article investigates the effects of TBI on vestibular functioning and associated communication disorders, highlighting the socio-functional challenges individuals face in both personal and professional domains. Additionally, it explores the role of vocational rehabilitation counselors in supporting individuals with TBI and their families in the rehabilitation process.
