Enhancing Digital Engagement in Vocational Rehabilitation: Three Evidence-Based Measures for Practice and Research

Kanako Iwanaga, Ph.D., CRC, LPC, is an associate professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Counseling at the College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She earned her Ph.D. in rehabilitation counselor education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and previously served at Northern Illinois University before joining VCU. She has authored over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and nine book chapters. Her work centers on evidence-based rehabilitation counseling practices, demand-side employment, positive psychology, health promotion, transition support, and the validation of psychological and vocational assessment instruments for individuals with disabilities from diverse backgrounds.

Dewi Qisti is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a fellow with the Innovative Partnership for Advancing Rehabilitation Research and Training (IPARRT) at the Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER) at UW-Madison. She holds a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Addiction Counseling from St. Cloud State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in Indonesia. With professional experience as an addiction counselor, Dewi has worked to improve the mental health and well-being of individuals with substance use disorders in Indonesia. Her research focuses on enhancing the quality of life of people with disabilities by exploring inclusive and accessible education, sustainable employment practices, and the role of digital tools in Rehabilitation Counseling.

Jia Rung Wu, Ph.D. is an associate professor of Rehabilitation Counseling Program in the Department of Counselor Education of Northeastern Illinois University. She is a certified rehabilitation counselor, a license professional counselor in Wisconsin, and occupational therapist in Taiwan. With over 13 years of professional experience in the rehabilitation field, Dr. Wu has made significant contributions to the academic community by publishing over 50 refereed journal articles, seven book chapters and seven in press articles. Her programmatic research includes: 1) Race/Ethnicity Minority Students Academic Success and Career Development, 2) Health Promotion, and Positive Psychology, 3) Evidence-Based Practice and Clinical Application and 4) Test Construction and Research Methodology.