Affiliations: Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: David A. Rosenthal, PhD, CRC, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1000 Bascom Mall; Rm 431A, Madison, WI 53706 1496, USA. Tel.: +1 608 263 5860; Fax: +1 608 262 8108; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: The current study examined narrative data from a series of semi-structured focus groups in order to identify and examine the proficiencies and deficiencies in practice competencies specific to job functions in the changing practice environment of vocational rehabilitation (VR). Focus groups were conducted with members of organizations, individual service providers, as well as consumers and their families, and data were gathered to determine the potential barriers to employment and service needs of individuals with the most significant disabilities living in Wisconsin. Three major domains identified by the comprehensive needs assessment are employment knowledge, systems interactions and navigation, and consumer needs. Recommendations are aimed at increasing opportunities for community-based employment for persons with disabilities, increasing communication between consumers and service providers, and most importantly, eliminating financial disincentives that promote facility based employment.
Keywords: Vocational rehabilitation, employment, persons with severe disabilities, qualitative research, barriers
