Using Vocational Rehabilitation After High School

The vocational rehabilitation counselor is a resource that you can continue to use after graduation. And, if you are 18 years old and independent, you may be eligible for services for which you were ineligible when you were dependent on your parents. The vocational rehabilitation counselor on your team will be very helpful in setting you up with your local vocational rehabilitation office.

The office of vocational rehabilitation services offers a variety of services to disabled persons. The state of Virginia provides the following services:

• Diagnostics, evaluation, assessment
• Disability awareness counseling
• Vocational and career path counseling
• Job seeking and job retention counseling
• Access to employment resource centers
• Job placement
• Driver evaluation
• On-the-job training
• Follow-along services after placement

The services listed below may require financial participation based on your income level or your parents’ income level if you are still a dependent.

• Training (including post-secondary education, apprenticeship programs and, life skills programs)
• Related services (including transportation, rehabilitation technology/accommodations, personal assistance services, long term rehabilitative case management, centers for independent living and supportive services)

Specialized DRS Programs and Services are also available that may be of help in reaching your goals of post-secondary training or education. In addition, a program called Post-Secondary Education Rehabilitation Transition (PERT) is available in some regions. This program provides high school students with a comprehensive evaluation of vocational skills, independent living skills, and leisure and social skills. These evaluations may lead to additional vocational programs and services that may help you make a smooth transition from secondary to post-secondary education, training and employment.

Cobb, J. (2003) Learning How to Learn: Getting into and surviving college when you have a learning disability.
(second edition) Washington, DC: Child Welfare League of America.

Visit the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services for more information!

---