National Symposium on Rehabilitation Counseling 2023 General Sessions

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Remarks from DAS Katherine Neas, OSERS

During this update session, attendees learn about the introduction of a new monitoring protocol for fiscal issues, a technical assistance circular outlining allowable sources of non-federal share, and the redesign of RSA 911 data dashboards. The Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) discussed its subminimum wage initiative, with all 14 states that applied being funded and six diverse topic areas, ranging from Essential Workers to Field Initiated projects. Transition services for youth with disabilities were addressed, revealing that only 37.7% received such services in PY 2021, and 45 of 78 state vocational rehabilitation agencies met the 15% federal allocation requirement for pre-employment transition services in FY 2022. The presentation also highlighted current investments and trends in pre-employment transition services, including the 2023 Disability Innovation Fund of $220 million and various OSERS initiatives.

Presenter:

Katherine Neas
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education

Training Resources

Current Priorities for the Public VR Program – 50 Year Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

In this address, Steve Wooderson, CEO of the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR), examined the current priorities for public VR. He commences by highlighting the significance of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a landmark legislation that transformed the landscape of disability rights. Wooderson then tackles pressing challenges faced by the VR program today, including the widespread impact of the great resignation and the hurdles in attracting and retaining qualified counselors. He concludes by underscoring the imperative for the VR program to embrace change and maintain its commitment to delivering exceptional services to individuals with disabilities.

Presenter:

Stephen Wooderson
Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR)

Training Resources

Transcript: Current Priorities for the Public VR Program (word)
Audio: Current Priorities for the Public VR Program (mp3)
No Presentation Slides Available

Unification Among Professional Organizations in Rehabilitation Counseling: An Update From the Field

This update examines the ongoing discussion surrounding unification within the rehabilitation counseling profession. It dives deep into the results of a recent survey conducted among certified rehabilitation counselors, shedding light on their perspectives and preferences. Additionally, the presentation explores the efforts undertaken by the Rehabilitation Counseling and Unification Task Force, offering valuable insights into their work and recommendations. Join us to engage in a deeper discussion about this crucial topic and learn more about the potential future of professional organizations such as NCRE and RCEA.

Presenters:

Catherine Anderson & Andrea Nerlich

Training Resources

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Understanding of What It Is to Acquire a Disability

Ingrid O'Neal is a former VR counselor who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). She shared her story about how her diagnosis affected her work and how she had to adjust to her new reality. She emphasized the importance of being realistic about one's limitations and advocating for oneself to get the accommodations needed to stay employed. She also encouraged VR counselors to be mindful of the potential for fatigue and other challenges that people with MS may face.

Presenter:

Ingrid O’Neal

Training Resources

Transcript: VR Counselor Understanding of What It Is to Acquire a Disability (word)
Audio: VR Counselor Understanding of What It Is to Acquire a Disability (mp3)
No Presentation Slides Available

National Symposium on Rehabilitation Counseling 2023 General Sessions

National Symposium on Rehabilitation Counseling 2023 General Sessions

Remarks from DAS Katherine Neas, OSERS

Presenter:

Training Resources

Current Priorities for the Public VR Program – 50 Year Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Presenter:

Training Resources

Unification Among Professional Organizations in Rehabilitation Counseling: An Update From the Field

Presenters:

Training Resources

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Understanding of What It Is to Acquire a Disability

Presenter:

Training Resources

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