Affiliations: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA,
USA | University of Florida, FL, USA | University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
Note: [] Brian T. McMahon is a research professor, Departments of
Physical Medicine/Rehabilitation and Rehabilitation Counseling, Virginia
Commonwealth University. Linda R. Shaw is an associate professor, Department of
Rehabilitation Counseling, University of Florida. Fong Chan is a professor,
Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of
Wisconsin-Madison. Carolyn-Danczyk Hawley is a doctoral candidate at VCU in the
School of Allied Health Professions. Address for correspondence: Brian T.
McMahon, Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation Counseling, 209 McGuire Hall, 1121 East Clay St., PO Box 980330,
Richmond, VA 23298, USA. Tel.: +1 804 827 0917; Fax: +1 804
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to describe two constructs recently
highlighted in the counseling psychology literature – working alliance and
counseling expectancies – and to describe first steps toward their application
in vocational rehabilitation. As consumer and counselor embark on the
vocational rehabilitation experience, differences in expectations may lead to a
strained relationship and subsequent poor outcomes. In recognition of this
challenge, the authors undertook a research project to give meaning and impetus
to the concept of consumer empowerment in a manner that would maximize VR
outcomes. Specifically, enhancing the quality of the working alliance between
counselors and consumers is presented as one way to achieve these goals.
