bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonverbal Learning Disability: Vocational Implications and Rehabilitation Treatment Approaches
Authors: Telzrow Cathy F. , Koch Lynn C.
Published: June 2019

The Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD) syndrome is a disorder characterized by a distinctive profile of neuropsychological, academic, adaptive, and psychosocial functioning. This condition has multiple etiologies and may be unidentified or misidentified because of its unusual combination of characteristics. Of significance to rehabilitation counselors, individuals with NLD have a high probability of being unemployed or underemployed. An overview of NLD is provided, including a description of the disorder's common etiologies and features. Vocational implications of the NLD syndrome are outlined, and rehabilitation counseling approaches to maximize vocational adjustment are described.
Correlates of Rehabilitation Success Among African American and Caucasian SSDI Recipients with Mild Mental Retardation
Authors: Moore Corey L. , Alston Reginald J. , Donnell Chandra M. , Hollis Bridget
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to identify disparities in rehabilitation success (closure status 26) rates between Caucasian and African American SSDI recipients with mild mental retardation. A split-half cross-validation research design was utilized to evaluate two samples (i.e., screening and calibration) of case records obtained from the RSA-911 database for fiscal year 1998. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds of rehabilitation success for a Caucasian VR customer was almost two times the odds of rehabilitation success for an African American customer. Moreover, findings indicated that a significantly higher proportion of job placement services were provided to Caucasian SSDI recipients with mild mental retardation as opposed to African American SSDI recipients with mild mental retardation. Results are presented for closure status, and the implications of the findings for research and practice are discussed.
Who Gets to Choose: A Primer for Increasing Rehabilitation Counselors' Awareness for Navigating “Paternalistic” Interventions
Authors: Keferl Joseph E. , La Forge Jan , Toriello Paul J.
Published: June 2019

Information aimed at increasing rehabilitation counselors' awareness of personal values influencing paternalistic interventions is presented. The potential compromise of rehabilitation consumers' autonomy is the chief reference point for understanding the impact of rehabilitation counselors' paternalistic interventions. Strategies for recognizing the influence of personal value systems are presented with the intention of optimizing positive paternalistic interventions.
Female Sexuality and Spinal Cord Injury: Counseling Implications
Authors: Miller Eva , Marini Irma
Published: June 2019

The following article is designed to identify and examine sexuality-related issues frequently experienced among females with SCI. Some of the widespread barriers and myths associated with SCI and female sexuality are Identified, followed by prevalent physiological concerns of SCI on female sexuality, including intercourse, birth control, and pregnancy. Common psychosocial aspects of SCI and female sexuality such as asexual attitudes toward persons with disabilities and concerns about body image are also discussed. Current models used to successfully work with persons who are experiencing sexual dysfunction are examined, with special emphasis on common problems among women with SCI. A five-step framework that can be used by counselors for identifying and addressing specific sexuality concerns among women with SCI, including attracting a partner, dating, and developing and maintaining long-term relationships are discussed.
An Overview of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorders: Implications for Rehabilitation Professionals
Authors: Hogan Ebony M. , McReynolds Connie J.
Published: June 2019

This article addresses anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorders (BED) through the discussion of demographic information, symptomatology, DSM IV criteria for diagnosis, etiology, current treatment modalities, and the potential prognosis of each of these disorders. Additional information about an eating disorder that exclusively affects men is also provided. Intervention strategies for each eating disorder, as well as the relapse phenomenon affecting recovery from eating disorders, are discussed. Specific suggestions are provided for rehabilitation counselors as well as suggestions for future research.
The Complexity Behind the Hispanic Identity
Authors: Senices Julissa
Published: June 2019

This paper will review the complexity behind the various Hispanic identities and its implication for the field of rehabilitation counseling and other human service professions. Variables such as privilege, colorism, national origin, socioeconomic status, and experiences with discrimination interact and make-up the multiple identities of Hispanics. Yet, the use of the label Hispanic label has homogenized this population. It is recommended that rehabilitation counselors and other human service professionals be aware of the heterogeneity within the Hispanic population since it gives Hispanics tremendous latitude in the selection of a cultural identity.
Latino VR Access Rates by Disability Type and Proportions in the General Population with Disabilities
Authors: Moore Corey L. , Giesen J. Martin , Cavenaugh Brenda S.
Published: June 2019

The access (application and entry) rates of Latino and other ethnic/racial group members to the state-federal vocational rehabilitation (VR) system was provided and compared to proportions with the same corresponding disability in the general population. Percentages were slightly higher (2-3%) for Latinos with visual impairments, and Latinos with deafness and hearing loss, and about the same for Latinos with substance dependence and those with mental retardation relative to the percentages of Latinos with the same types of disabilities in the national population. We concluded that the socioeconomic disadvantages of Latinos with visual impairments and with deafness and hearing loss may increase their need to access VR relative to all other ethnic or racial group members (i.e., African Americans, Whites) with visual impairments or with deafness and hearing loss. There was additional discussion of a strikingly higher percentage of African Americans with substance abuse in VR.
Strategies to Promote Successful Employment of People with Psychiatric Disabilities
Authors: Ackerman George W. , McReynolds Connie J.
Published: June 2019

Achieving successful employment outcomes for people with psychiatric disabilities continues to be one of the greatest challenges for rehabilitation counselors. This is particularly true now that people with psychiatric disabilities constitute the largest client population for vocational rehabilitation agencies. Given the magnitude and complexity of the challenge, rehabilitation counselors need to utilize every strategy available to assist people with psychiatric disabilities in becoming successfully employed Psychiatric rehabilitation intervention methods will be discussed, emphasizing the use of job trainers in working with individuals with psychiatric disabilities.
The Centrality of Race in Rehabilitation: Views of Former Clients Who are African American
Authors: Alston Reginald J. , Gayles Travis , Rucker Regine , Hobson Maurice
Published: June 2019

Phenomenology has been argued as the best paradigm for exploring the relationship between race and rehabilitation for minority clients. The purpose of this qualitative investigation was to build on earlier survey studies by conducting focus group interviews of African Americans closed either success folly or unsuccess fully. The findings in this study support the assertions that race is a salient factor for African Americans in rehabilitation and can shade their perception of the experience. Theoretical considerations and practice implications are discussed.
The Tripartite Model of Supervision for Rehabilitation Counselors
Authors: Schultz Jared C.
Published: June 2019

Supervisors working in rehabilitation agencies are faced with the complex task of attending to the needs of their professional staff, and meeting the needs of their organization. This article introduces the Tripartite Model of Supervision, which delineates the supervisory functions of administrative oversight, professional development, and clinical supervision. The overlap of these functions, including quality assurance, strategic leadership, transformational learning, and the supervisory working alliance are also discussed. It is posited that the implementation of this model will result in a movement to a more supportive and developmentally focused supervisory process within rehabilitation agencies.
Utilization of Substance Abuse Screening by State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies
Authors: Heinemann Allen W. , McAweeney Mary , Lazowski Linda E. , Moore Dennis
Published: June 2019

This report evaluates variations in substance abuse screening rates by state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies in six states. State agency VR counselors asked customers to complete a screener. The intake rates, the number of screenings offered, the number of screenings completed, the refusal rates and the screen-positive rates varied widely across states. A rapid increase in screenings occurred in three states after project initiation, while two others established and maintained a moderate number of screenings. One state delayed participation and therefore its results are not reported here. Improving employment outcomes by making targeted referrals for substance abuse requires a high level of support by agency leaders.
White Privilege: A Primer for the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Authors: LeBlanc Sandra , Wilson Keith B. , Juchau Karen
Published: June 2019

Vocational rehabilitation outcome discrepancy studies point to a lingering disparity in outcomes between Northern European- Americans (white) and racial minority groups in the United States. Despite the history of the study of white privilege and its impact in many fields and disciplines, the possible connection between vocational rehabilitation outcome discrepancies and the values and attitudes engendered by white privilege are rarely discussed in rehabilitation literature. This paper explores the possible role of white privilege in disparities between vocational rehabilitation outcomes experienced by racial minorities and those experienced by whites.
Using Schlossberg's Transition Model in Response to Natural Disaster for People with Disabilities
Authors: Harley Debra A. , Beach David , Alston Reginald J.
Published: June 2019

Natural disasters produce unequal outcomes for individuals with disabilities. In addition to dealing with the effects of disasters that everyone must confront, the presence of disability exacerbates recovery. This article presents information on the effects of natural disasters on people with disabilities, Schlossberg's Model as a framework for recovery, strategies for recovery, and implications for counseling. The intent of this article is to help counselors assist their clients to develop disaster resilience.
Rehabilitation Counseling in the Year 2011: Perceptions of Certified Rehabilitation Counselors
Authors: Barros-Bailey Mary , Benshoff John J. , Fischer Jerome
Published: June 2019

In the 2006 Job Analysis of Certified Rehabilitation Counselors, the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification asked counselors where they thought the profession would be in 5 years. A total of 529 counselors gave their opinions about the future of rehabilitation counseling within the context of the sociopolitical environment in which they practice, about general trends in the profession, and about how these might affect the sector in which they are employed. Perceptions included concerns about the aging workforce and client base, the role of assistive technology, counseling skill development to meet the needs of a more complex client population, funding resources, and licensure/certification issues. Implications of their answers within the emerging generational context were explored, as were ideas for future research.
A Reality Model for Rehabilitation Counselor Education
Authors: Thomason Bruce , Saxon John P.
Published: June 2019

The reality model in rehabilitation counselor education is often implemented in a setting, such as a hospital, a rehabilitation facility, or an agency, where performance of the counselor is basic to his professional survival in the setting. It is not a role-playing situation; it is a real life situation where the client's future is dependent on the reality helpfulness of the counselor. These authors suggest that rehabilitation counselor educators thoroughly scrutinize certain experiential approaches and that they not discard the salient variables of the reality model and replace them with experiential placeboes. The mistakes in early educational designs, which produced “activity” but failed to teach reading, writing, and arithmetic, should not be repeated.
Rehabilitation-a Shift in Focus
Authors: Cooper Marc , Parker Lionel E.
Published: June 2019

A review of the rehabilitation process indicates a general inconsistency between rehabilitation rhetoric and rehabilitation practice. This inconsistency is the lack of a measure of actual client change during the phases of the rehabilitation process even though the assumption is evident that client change must occur if the process is to be successful. A shift in focus from counselor related activities to direct measures of client behavior and client change is a necessary step in the field of rehabilitation if the client is going to achieve maximum benefits from rehabilitation services. This refocusing would give more meaning to the rehabilitation process and would give the counselor a more professional image as a facilitator of behavior change with rehabilitation as the goal.
Vocational Evaluation: A User's Critique
Authors: Vaughn Ray , Scott Randall
Published: June 2019

This paper presents some of the uses of vocational evaluation in Texas and the methods used in conducting such evaluations. Some positive and negative aspects of evaluations revealed during site surveys are noted and possible improvements are reviewed.
The Rehabilitation Counselor and the Physician
Authors: Swisher John D. , Hylbert Kenneth W.
Published: June 2019

A survey of counselor's perceptions of their use of medical information was administered to 52 Pennsylvania BVR counselors. Of the counselors surveyed 83% felt they should be allowed to describe the symptoms pre-sented in an initial interview. Seventy-four percent of the counselors felt that making referrals to private practitioners should also be considered a routine function. Sixty-six percent felt they should be allowed to make referrals to medical specialists. However; 89'% felt it would be inappropriate for them to make medical diagnoses. Several other findings regarding treatment and prognosis are also reported.
Measuring the Effectiveness and Variations of Rehabilitation Counselor Education Programs
Authors: Wright George N. , Reagles Kenneth W. , Scorzelli James F.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to report initial findings from a subsample of a survey designed to assess Rehabilitation Counselor Education (RCE) programs through the perceptions of graduates. This research is one component of an effort by the Council On Rehabilitation Education to establish an accreditation procedure for master's level RCE programs. The researchers used a 107-item questionnaire to elicit responses in four areas: graduate demographic data, RCE program goals and objectives, components of graduates' involvement as students in the program, and functions of rehabilitation counselors. The analyses were based upon a randomly selected sub-sample of 534 out of 905 total graduate respondents. The preliminary findings indicated that the graduates, as a whole, had certain characteristics in common. Of those graduates surveyed, 830/0 were employed full-time, and of these, 87.60/0 were holding jobs in rehabilitationrelated work. In addition, while there tended to be general agreement on the important ingredients of rehabilitation counselor training, there was considerable variation as to the programs' patterns and degrees of educational effectiveness. Furthermore, the graduates' responses suggested practical differences among RCE programs in how well students were prepared to perform selected functions. Nevertheless, the preliminary findings imply that while master's level RCE programs do vary in educational mission and effectiveness, the programs generally prepared their students adequately for positions as rehabilitation counselors.
Rehabilitation Training
Authors: Hansen Carl E.
Published: June 2019

This is the testimony of Dr. Carl E. Hansen, Immediate Past President, National Rehabilitation Counseling Association and Director, Rehabilitation Counselor Education, University of Texas at Austin, for the Select Subcommittee on Education, House Labor HEW Committee, November 1973.
Adjusting to Threat in the Workplace: A Case Study
Authors: Davis Alan
Published: June 2019

The environment in which rehabilitation counselors provide services to people with disabilities is changing to reflect changes in our society. Threats of violence have become a recurring feature of public service, including rehabilitation counseling. Counselors, supervisors, and administrators must seek an improved understanding of the dynamics of crisis and methods of effective response. The experience of a threatened counselor described in this report provided an opportunity to observe the sequential nature of adjustment to crisis. It is suggested that crisis theory can be useful for anticipating the responses of threatened counselors and providing a conceptual framework to guide preparation for possible future threats.
Roles and Relationships with Clients in Rehabilitation Counseling: Beyond the Concept of Dual Relationships
Authors: Cottone R. Rocco
Published: June 2019

This article describes the recent revision of the Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors, specifically addressing the Roles and Relationships With Clients ethical standard. A brief historical overview is provided of the terminology and the debate surrounding the outdated dual-relationship ethical rule in rehabilitation counseling. The term exploitation is also delimited. The revised ethical standards are addressed, with attention given to the standard allowing for “potentially beneficial” interactions. Implications for rehabilitation counseling practice are outlined.
Empirical Influences on the 2010 Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors
Authors: Saunders Jodi L. , Leahy Michael J.
Published: June 2019

This article provides an overview of the selected literature that informed the themes and areas of concentration for the revision of the Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors. It offers a review of the most recent research conducted on the core knowledge and competencies reported by practicing certified rehabilitation counselors, given that such research is one of the foundations of the revised code.
Improving Transition Outcomes for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse VR Consumers
Authors: Anderson Christine B. , Smart Julie F.
Published: June 2019

Throughout the transition and vocational rehabilitation process those who are Culturally Linguistically Diverse (CLD), or identify as belonging to a racial and ethnic minority group, experience limited achievement in the following areas: high school completion, obtaining employment, quality of employment (as measured by the federal minimum wage), postsecondary education or training, and independent living. Cooperation and collaboration with the family in all phases of the vocational rehabilitation process leads to successful outcomes. Family involvement, however, may be even more critical in transition especially for CLD consumers. This article focuses on two aspects of the transition process. First, the difficulties in traversing two service delivery systems, special education and vocational rehabilitation, are discussed, including the different legal mandates for each system. Second, the far-reaching efficts of the individualistic orientation of the transition process are contrasted with the interdependent and collectivistic worldview of many CLD students and their families. Finally, recommendationsfor education, practice, and research are presented.
Returning Veterans' Adjustment Concerns: Family Views
Authors: Graf Noreen M. , Miller Eva , Feist Amber , Freeman Samuel
Published: June 2019

This study used two focus groups to examine the views of parents, siblings, and a partner regarding the adjustment issues of combat veterans. Using qualitative and mixed methodologies, a number of themes were identified under the 3 categories of Changes in Veterans, Family Interactions, and Military Complaints. The subtheme of Family Cohesiveness occurred most often (52%), followed by Positive Feelings and Attitudes (44%), Anger and Aggression (40%), Distancing and Isolation (37%), and Safety/Protection and Unmet Needs (both at 34%). The mixed-methods analyses identified the themes present across all participants and the themes most relevant to individual participants. Counseling implications and suggestions for future research are offered.
The Department of Veteran Benefits' Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Independent Living Program
Authors: Patterson Jeanne B.
Published: June 2019

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program, a division in the Department of Veterans Benefits within the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), provides vocational rehabilitation services that are similar to those provided by the state-federal vocational rehabilitation program. The Independent Living Program (IL), which is part of VR&E, addresses the IL needs of veterans with the most serious disabilities. Rehabilitation counselors are an integral part of the IL service program. The purpose of this article is to describe the IL program, process, and the role of the rehabilitation counselor in the delivery of IL services to veterans.
Rehabilitation Counseling and Service-Learning: Exploring New Partnerships
Authors: Heiselt April K. , Tyson Gwen
Published: June 2019

Budget shortfalls, combined with a philosophy of doing more with less, have placed a tremendous demand on the workload of rehabilitation counselors. Looking to find solutions to this problem, rehabilitation counselors at the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) are linking with their local university to find assistance. The following article illustrates how a service-learning project with freshmen students at Mississippi State University provided benefits for rehabilitation counselors, their clients, and university students. A discussion of practitioner benefits, as well as information about how to create service-learning partnerships, is provided.
Cystic Fibrosis and Achieving Vocational Success: The Key Role of the Rehabilitation Counselor
Authors: Williams Lindsey W. , Burker Eileen J. , Kazukauskas Kelly
Published: June 2019

In the past, individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) were not expected to live to be adults, but now the expected lifespan is nearly forty years, with many living decades longer. As more persons with CF live into adulthood, the need for rehabilitation counselors familiar with the demands of this health condition will grow. Rehabilitation counselors are trained to assist those with CF, especially as they transition into adulthood, begin career exploration, attain and maintain employment, and balance life demands with health care needs. This paper provides specific vocational recommendations and examples to assist rehabilitation counselors working with individuals with CF.
Rehabilitation Counselors' Awareness, Knowledge, and Skills Regarding Twice-Exceptional Consumers
Authors: Wood Susannah M. , Estrada-Hernández Noel
Published: June 2019

This study examined the usefulness of an instrument designed to measure rehabilitation counselors' awareness, knowledge, and skills regarding twice exceptionality. Further, the study examined whether or not the counselors' awareness, knowledge, and skills differed depending upon their prior awareness of the term twice-exceptional and the training they received in their preparation programs regarding twice-exceptional consumers. Findings indicate that there are five primary areas of awareness, knowledge, and skills rehabilitation counselors have in working with this population. Rehabilitation counselors with prior awareness of twice-exceptionality had higher levels of awareness, knowledge, and skills pertaining to this population. Implications for practicing rehabilitation professionals, rehabilitation preparation programs, and for future research are included.
A Closer Look at Distance-Based Supervisory Relationships in Master's Level Rehabilitation Counseling Programs
Authors: Morissette Stefanie , Bezyak Jill L. , Ososkie J. Norbert
Published: June 2019

The impact of using the Internet as the primary means of communication between interns and supervisors in graduate rehabilitation counseling programs is addressed. An important part of counselor education is the collaborative supervisory relationship, where students hone their clinical skills and benefit from the expertise, knowledge, and experience of a supervisor. Using the Internet as a central means of communication in the supervisory relationship is fraught with problems, and it is only through awareness of the limitations inherent in Internet supervision that counselors in training may develop skills needed to provide quality treatment to clients. It is important for supervisors and students to follow ethical standards in the distance learning environment. Future research will be required to understand the supervisor's perspective, adequate career training using distance learning in rehabilitation counseling, and education and training in the use of online tools.
Families and Uncertainty: Using Problematic Integration Theory in Transition Services
Authors: Magnuson Lori
Published: June 2019

Families of young adults with intellectual disabilities face a number of uncertainties when they leave secondary settings and begin the transition to adult life. Services may be inconsistent, resources unavailable, and options for independent living and employment severely limited. Research indicates that many families experience fear, frustration, and disappointment as part of this process, and many also believe helping professionals are unequipped to assist them. Drawing from the field of interpersonal communication, Austin Babrow's Problematic Integration Theory posits that both information and the ability to process feelings and fears can be helpful to families facing uncertain futures with their children. This article suggests rehabilitation counselors may be better able to assist families if they encourage open discussion of their fears and uncertainties as part of transition and adult service planning.
Determinants of Health Care Access After Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Umeasiegbu Veronica
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a review of the literature examining determinants of access to health care among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The literature shows that health insurance, race-ethnicity, income, age, gender, and residential location (rural/urban) are common themes discussed in the literature as factors that influence access to health care of persons with SCI. This review ends with discussion of implications for rehabilitation counseling research and practice.
The Importance of Positive Client-Staff Social Interactions in Inpatient Psychiatric Rehabilitation Programs
Authors: Critten Danielle R. , Bezyak Jill L. , Fried Juliet H.
Published: June 2019

Social support has received much attention and empirical support as being a key component of the psychiatric rehabilitation of individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). Social dysfunction is often a defining characteristic of SMI, and interventions targeting social deficits help to improve client outcomes. The provision of social skills training and psychoeducation to improve social interactions and client knowledge of their illness and treatment options is vital in psychiatric rehabilitation. Since most patient interactions in an inpatient facility are with staff members and others with SMI, staff members must be mindful of the nature of individuals' illnesses, as well as their style of communication with the clients they serve as these are closely associated with rehabilitation outcomes. Staff members also are in charge of educating individuals about their illness and treatment options, and they should be knowledgeable about the information they are imparting. Recommendations for approaches to better prepare inpatient staff members to work with persons with SMI are provided.
A Guide for Working with Vocational Rehabilitation Clients with Acquired Brain Injury Using the International Classification of Functioning Model
Authors: Grizzell Saara T. , Smart Julie F.
Published: June 2019

This paper discusses the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model as a tool in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to adults with acquired brain injuries (ABI). The ICF is a powerful tool for assessing the functioning of adults with ABI, designing rehabilitation interventions, and tracking client progress. This paper discusses how the ICF will facilitate the rehabilitation process in five broad areas: (a) identifying and assessing the effects of ABI, (b) designing interventions, (c) facilitating best practices, (d) implementing program evaluation, and (e) acting as catalyst for research.
Combat to College: Cognitive Fatigue as a Challenge in Iraq and Afghanistan War Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury: Pilot Study Survey Results
Authors: Smee Dan , Buenrostro Sandra , Garrick Thomas , Sreenivasan Shoba , Weinberger Linda E.
Published: June 2019

Among Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), high intensity academic cognitive demands may result in “cognitive fatigue” and an obstacle to college success. We examined this concept through a survey of 16 Iraq/Afghanistan war veterans enrolled in college with a VA diagnosis of TBI The majority of veterans reported depletion of mental energy following intense concentration and a long recovery time. Twenty-five percent had previously dropped out of college due to cognitive fatigue. Thirty-one percent endorsed having both TBI and PTSD, implying co-morbid impact. College services for returning veterans' needs may differ from the average college student, and involves de-stigmatizing injury to facilitate access. Implications of cognitive fatigue upon college success as well as recommendations for development of veteran-specific programs to address challenges posed by TBI are offered.
Agency Type as Predictor of Employment Outcomes for Persons with Visual Impairments: Current Trends and Considerations
Authors: Rak Eniko
Published: June 2019

Persons with visual disabilities receive vocational rehabilitation (VR) services through general, combined or separate agencies within the public system. Currently there are 32 combined, 24 separate and 24 general agencies in the United States (US). This study examined the role of agency type in predicting employment outcome of persons with visual impairments using the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA-911) data, which is a comprehensive database of clients exiting the public vocational rehabilitation system. The study compared separate and combined agencies. Persons with blindness and other visual impairments exiting public vocational rehabilitation during four fiscal years (2008 – 2011) participated in this study. Outcomes of binary logistic regressions indicate that agency affiliation is not a significant predictor of successful closures when controlling for employment status at application and major demographic variables. Implications of these findings, limitations of the current study and future research recommendations are discussed.
International Collaborative Cross-Cultural Teaching Project: United States and Taiwan
Authors: Siu Frances W. , Brodwin Martin G. , Huang I-Chun , Brodwin Erin R. , Kier Christiaan
Published: June 2019

This article describes a collaborative e-learning project between the United States and Taiwan. The project involved teaching a synchronized graduate-level rehabilitation counselor education course through the use of Skype. Report of the process, impact on live teaching, and evaluation of experiences from students and professors of both universities are presented while advantages and disadvantages, limitations and recommendations of e-learning are described.
Disability and the Asian Culture
Authors: Yan Kenny K. , Accordino Michael P. , Boutin Daniel L. , Wilson Keith B.
Published: June 2019

Contemporary demographics reveal that the Asian Population is the fastest growing minority in the U.S. Thus, vocational rehabilitation counselors must be prepared to face cultural dynamics that can influence outcomes in the treatment process. While many people may view Asians as a homogenous population, people who are of Asian descent come from many places including, but not limited to Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand, Vietnam and Asian/Pacific Islander population. The present study provides information about the Asian culture relative to people with disabilities and seeks to give clinicians more tools to apply when working with people who are of Asian descent. Asians represent 4.8% of the civilian non-institutionalized population. Since the Asian/Pacific Islander population is a large racial ethnic group in the U.S., it is important to understand how vocational rehabilitation counselors educate them to live in their new land.
How Gender of Ex-Offenders Influences Access to Employment Opportunities
Authors: Richardson Rebecca L. , Flower Shawn M.
Published: June 2019

While both male and female ex-offenders face many of the same difficulties while finding employment, some barriers are unique to either males or females, or are more problematic for one gender. The purpose of this article is to review gender differences in barriers to employment for ex-offenders with disabilities. There is little research on disabilities and offending populations – what exists explores the prevalence of mental health, substance abuse, and intellectual or developmental disabilities (James & Glaze, 2006; National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2010). Further, the body of research that examines barriers to employment specifically for ex-offenders with disabilities is extremely limited. Consequently, this review will explicitly reference ex-offenders with disabilities where possible, but generalizations about this justice-involved population are required. The authors hypothesize that many of the existing gender-neutral and gender-specific barriers to employment are exacerbated by the presence of a disability or disabilities. Disadvantages for ex-offenders are compounded in a fashion that makes finding a job a daunting task.
Aging, Incarceration, and Employment Prospects: Recommendations for Practice and Policy Reform
Authors: Maschi Tina , Morgen Keith , Westcott Kimberly , Viola Deborah , Koskinen Lindsay
Published: June 2019

Aging people in prison and post-prison release pose significant yet surmountable challenges in satisfying age-specific educational, training, employment, financial and civic participation rights. This descriptive study of 677 older prisoners, aged 50+, in a statewide prison system provides a historical analysis of past and current individual and social structural level factors that influence the prisoners' economic and employment prospects after being released from prison. Results highlight the diversity within this population based on socio-demographics, work histories, family obligations, health status, and legal histories that influence the level of support experienced post incarceration. Thesefindings suggest the need for comprehensive services that provide prison and post-prison release education, vocational training, and housing and job placement for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated older adults. Strategies for providing culturally responsive tools and resources to support education, training, and employment offormerly incarcerated older adults are discussed.
An Exploration of Work Incentive Benefits Specialists' Experiences
Authors: Hartman Ellie C. , Anderson Catherine A. , Chan Jacob Yuichung , Fried Juliet H. , Lui John W.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions and experiences of work incentive benefits specialists (WIBS) and to identify the resources necessary to sustain essential work incentive benefits counseling services provided by these individuals. Participants included both Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and non-WIPA funded benefits specialists. WIBS were asked to complete the Work Incentives Benefits' Experience Survey (WISES), which was provided as an online instrument using electronic survey software. Sixty-five (65) individuals completed the survey. Results in identifying “primary roles,” “service delivery,” “education and background,” “consumer characteristics,” and “outreach and sustainability” verify that this is an emerging profession, expanding into a variety of practice settings to assist beneficiaries in financial planning while acquiring or maintaining employment. Other important considerations are the movement toward specific certificate or completion of training and a focus on quality assurance.
Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Veterans of Color: A Framework for Promoting the Adoption of Effective State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies, American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Programs, and Veterans Affairs-Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Co-Service Practices in Vocational Rehabilitation
Authors: Johnson Jean E. , Moore Corey L. , Wang Ningning , Sanders Perry , Sassin John
Published: June 2019

This article proposes the adoption of co-service practices between state vocational rehabilitation agencies (SVRAs), American Indian vocational rehabilitation programs (AIVRPs), and Veterans Affairs-Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VA-VR&E) programs as a means to increase employment outcomes for veterans of color (i.e., African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asians) with disabilities. Collaborative agency practices are shown to contribute to successful outcomes. However, there is less discussion on how to promote adoption of co-service practices between these agencies. The purpose of this article is to discuss the need for interagency collaborations and Diffusion of Innovations Theory as an approach for promoting adoption of co-service practices across these agency contexts to increase employment services and outcomes for these veterans. Recommended approaches that can be considered for advancing the current state-of-the-science on improving SVRAs and VA -VR&E, and AIVRPs and VA -VR&E co-service strategies for placing these veterans into competitive integrated employment are presented.
Vocational Rehabilitation Employment of People with Disabilities: Descriptive Analysis of U.S. Data from 2008 to 2012
Authors: Yamamoto Scott H. , Olson Deborah L.
Published: June 2019

People with disabilities (PWD) in the U.S. experience lower employment rates and wages than people without disabilities, and unfortunately this historical trend has had negative consequences for our society. A major federal initiative to address this problem was in creating State-Federal Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services to assist PWD to obtain and retain employment. This study analyzed and described VR employment outcomes across several consecutive recent years and across states and client characteristics. From 2008 to 2012, which included the years of the ‘Great Recession’, the upper Northeast and the South had the highest VR employment closure rates; rates among white males were the highest. Results of this study have important implications for researchers, VR services, and policymakers in a larger context of an economy that continues to evolve and technological advancements that will create new opportunities but also challenges.
Rehabilitation Professionals’ Attitudes towards Medicinal Marijuana Use: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lusk Stephanie L. , Paul Teresia M.
Published: June 2019

Attitudes toward the use of medicinal marijuana have continued to change, which is reflected in the number of states that have passed legislation allowing for its use and in the number of states petitioning to place this matter on upcoming ballots. Understanding the attitudes of rehabilitation professionals toward medicinal marijuana use is important as they are responsible for providing appropriate support and services to all consumers and will be responsible for navigating through uncharted territory when it comes to this new trend. Their attitudes might determine how they approach the ensuing demands and consequences associated with the use of medical marijuana by their consumers. This manuscript reports the results of a pilot study conducted as a means to determine the most appropriate way to measure the attitudes of these professionals toward the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Results from the pilot are used to inform the researchers on the appropriateness of their study design and implementation procedures before a full scale study is conducted..
Ethical Considerations for Working with Transition aged youth and Students with Disabilities Given the implications of WIOA
Authors: Joseph Mary-Anne M. , Osmanu Kimberly , Moss Kaylin
Published: June 2019

Purpose: For decades vocational rehabilitation counselors (VRC) have worked to serve transition aged students and youth with disabilities with the consideration of federal mandates such as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. With the implementation of the newly authorized Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WIOA) VRC find themselves with greater responsibilities when working with transition aged youth. This article explores the relevant codes set forth in the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) Code of Ethics that relate to the implementation of the WIOA as it applies to the provision of transition services. Implications for ethical obligations are presented as well as recommendations for best practice according to the CRC Code of Ethics.
Predictors of Medical and Vocational Rehabilitation Treatment Compliance Among African Americans with Chronic Pain Conditions: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Washington-Walker Janique , Moore Corey L. , Whittaker Tyra Turner , Wagner Miriam L.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore potential predictors of medical and vocational rehabilitation treatment compliance among African Americans receiving chronic pain management and state vocational rehabilitation agency sponsored services. Study participants included 51 African Americans with chronic pain associated with an array of health conditions (i.e., head pain, neck pain, back pain, leg pain, and diabetes) served by the North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services during fiscal years 2014-2016. The results revealed select demographic characteristics, social support, and health disparities as predictors of compliance. Future implications for rehabilitation policy, service, and research are presented.
Comments
Authors: Newell Deborah H.
Published: June 2019

This section is reserved as an outlet for brief professional expressions pertaining to issues concerning the handicapped, the field of rehabilitation counseling, and/or reactions to previously published JARC articles.
Rehabilitation Counselors as Needed School Employees
Authors: Cohen Charles
Published: June 2019

Under a federal grant, the Pittsburgh Public Schools has employed for the past three years, thirteen rehabilitation counselors. These rehabilitation counselors have been placed in the city high schools in order to give vocational counseling support to Educable Mentally Retarded students attending integrated vocational education courses. This is achieved at three stages of a student's vocational development by helping the student choose and enter an appropriate vocational program, by supporting him during the training period and by assisting him to find a job when his training is completed. Due to the success of the project, the school district has picked up the salaries of the rehabilitation counselors and their supervisor on the mainline Special Education budget thus assuring the continued support of the Project.
Some Perspectives on Report Writing in the Rehabilitation Process
Authors: Esser Thomas J.
Published: June 2019

This article provides an overview of the current state of report writing in rehabilitation facilities and workshops. Although report writing is often extremely time-consuming and viewed by staff members with negative connotations, this need not and should not necessarily be the case. Rehabilitation centers and workshops have a responsibility to evaluate their reportwriting practices and to establish a dialogue with the state VR agency in an attempt at improving their reports. The rehabilitation client is the prime benefactor of improvements in communication between the referring counselor and the private agency. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 may serve to bring about increased uniformity in report-writing practices.
Comments
Authors: Barry John R.
Published: June 2019

This section is reserved as an outlet for brief professional expressions pertaining to issues concerning the handicapped, the field of rehabilitation counseling, and/or reactions to previously published JARC articles.
Workplace Discrimination Involving Charging Parties With Substance Use Disorders Under Title I of the Americans With Disabilities Act
Authors: Leslie Mykal , Rainey Steve J. , Jencius Martin , Rumrill Phillip D. , McMahon Brian T.
Published: June 2019

The goal of this research was to describe allegations of discrimination, both actual and perceived, that were filed by individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) in comparison to a group of individuals with other physical disabilities (GENDIS) through analysis of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Integrated Mission System (IMS) database. An ex post facto, causal comparative quantitative design was used to examine Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title I allegations received by the EEOC from charging parties with SUD from 1992 through 2011 (n= 8,432) in comparison to the GENDIS group over the same timeframe (n= 82,618). Results revealed statistically significant differences in the patterns of issues alleged by the two groups. In addition, compared to the GENDIS comparison group, the SUD group was significantly younger, had a significantly higher proportion of males, had proportionally more individuals who identified as Caucasian and as Other, and had proportionally fewer individuals who identified as Hispanic/Mexican and Asian. Charging parties with SUD were significantly less likely than the GENDIS group to have their allegations result in a merit-based case resolution. Implications for rehabilitation practice and further research are discussed.
A Discussion of Adlerianism and Behavioral Therapies: Their Similarities and Differences
Authors: Podboy John , Organist James
Published: June 2019

This paper presents a discussion of two major systems of counseling—Adlerianism and Behaviorism-representatives of so-called “traditional” and “modern” approaches. Both systems were judged to be efficacious and, furthermore, may be integrated and used by the rehabilitation counselor in an eclectic approach, or as adjunct to one another.
Comments
Authors: Helge Doris
Published: June 2019

This section is reserved as an outlet for brief professional expressions pertaining to issues concerning the handicapped, the field of rehabilitation counseling, and/or reactions to previously published JARC articles.