Vocational Rehabilitation for People With Psychiatric Disabilities

People with psychiatric disabilities represent a significant percentage of the individuals served by rehabilitation programs. Research has shown that most individuals with psychiatric disabilities are interested in employment but vocational providers may lack the knowledge, skills, and abilities to assist this population (Henry & Lucca, 2004; Medar et al., 2017), and this paper may provide valuable considerations to Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors to increase positive outcomes such as securing and maintaining employment. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMSHA, 2012) unemployment of people with psychiatric disabilities is around 60-90%, work has always been an integrating force, although many people with psychiatric disabilities are unemployed. This article will provide information which will contribute to a better understanding of psychiatric disabilities and the employment and career counseling strategies that have proven successful.