Welcome to Elevate Pathways

Elevate Possibilities, Empower Pathways.

FAQs

Exploring Vocational Rehabilitation Services

  • Vocational Rehabilitation is a program designed to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, find, or retain employment. It provides a variety of services, including counseling, training, job placement, and support tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals.

  • Vocational Rehabilitation originated with the Smith-Fess Act of 1920, which established the first federally funded program to assist individuals with disabilities in finding employment. Over the decades, the program has evolved to include a wide range of services and is administered at the state level across the country.

  • Florida’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) provides services to individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities to help them secure employment and live independently. DVR works with clients to assess their needs, create an individualized plan for employment, and connect them with resources and training.

  • Eligibility for VR services is determined by whether you have a documented physical or mental disability that significantly impacts your ability to work and whether VR services can help you achieve employment goals. A counselor will evaluate your situation to determine eligibility.

  • If you’ve never been formally diagnosed with a disability but suspect that a condition is affecting your ability to work, VR can help. During the application process, a VR counselor will guide you through assessments or evaluations to determine whether you qualify for services. These evaluations may include medical, psychological, or vocational assessments to better understand your needs.

  • Yes, you can still apply for VR services. Part of the process may include assessments to identify any conditions or barriers that impact your ability to work. The VR team will assist in determining eligibility and connecting you with the right support and resources.

  • You can apply for VR services by contacting your local DVR office. In Florida, applications can typically be submitted online via https://rehabworks.org/, by mail, or in person. You’ll need to provide documentation of your disability and employment history as part of the application process.

  • In Florida, you can apply for VR services online (https://rehabworks.org/) or in person at your nearest DVR office. Online applications are often the fastest way to begin the process, but local offices can provide additional guidance if needed.

  • The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation serves all counties in Florida, with offices located throughout the state to ensure accessibility. You can find your nearest office on the Florida DVR website (https://rehabworks.org/).

  • If you are found eligible for VR services, you may have access to:

    • Financial assistance for college or vocational training

    • Job placement and coaching services

    • Assistive technology and accommodations

    • Counseling and guidance

    • Mental health services and referrals

    • Support for self-employment or small business development

    • Disability management and independent living support

  • After applying, you’ll typically meet with a VR counselor to discuss your needs, goals, and potential services. This includes assessments to determine your eligibility and the development of an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Once approved, services will begin according to the plan.

  • No, applying for VR services does not automatically refer you to Elevate Pathways. Once you’re working with a VR counselor, you can request Elevate Pathways as your preferred service provider. Your counselor will guide you through the referral process, which typically includes submitting a request for our evaluations or services. If you’d like to work with us, be sure to let your VR counselor know during your planning discussions. We are happy to collaborate with VR to provide the services you need.

  • The timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the documentation required. On average, the process can take a few weeks to a few months from application to approval.

  • Several resources are available to help you explore and prepare for career opportunities, including:

    • CareerSource Florida: Offers job search assistance, resume writing help, and career counseling.

    • Job Accommodation Network (JAN): Provides guidance on workplace accommodations.

    • Local VR offices: Offer access to counselors who can guide you through career exploration and planning.

    • O*NET Online: Explore detailed information about job skills, requirements, and career pathways for thousands of occupations.

    • My Next Move: Find careers that match your skills and interests with insights on education and job outlooks.

    • WIOA Programs: Access training and employment services for adults, youth, and individuals with employment barriers.

    • Community Colleges and Technical Schools: Receive career services like aptitude testing, certification guidance, and job placement help.

    • NCDA: Access tools and guidance to align your strengths with career pathways.

    • Disability-Specific Organizations: Groups like NFB and Autism Speaks offer career resources tailored to specific disabilities.

    • Online Career Platforms: Use LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job boards for career tools, networking, and job opportunities.

  • Yes, VR may provide financial assistance for vocational training, college tuition, certifications, or other educational programs related to your employment goals. This is determined based on your individualized plan and the availability of resources.

  • Yes, VR can provide assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and workplace accommodations to help individuals with disabilities succeed in their jobs.

  • While VR itself may not provide direct mental health services, it can connect you with resources and referrals for mental health support, as this is often critical to achieving employment goals.

  • VR services are tailored to your unique strengths, abilities, and goals. Whether you’re looking for entry-level work, skilled trades, or professional careers, VR counselors work with you to identify and pursue opportunities aligned with your interests and skills.

  • Yes, VR can assist individuals who want to start their own business by providing guidance, resources, and, in some cases, funding for self-employment.

  • VR counselors can help you explore your interests, skills, and goals through assessments and career exploration activities. Resources like CareerSource and other career guidance tools can also provide additional support.

Connect With Us

If you’re applying for VR services and would like to work with Elevate Pathways, let your VR counselor know. They can guide you through the referral process to ensure we become your service provider.

Whether you’re seeking guidance, have questions about vocational rehabilitation, or want to collaborate as a VR counselor or service provider, we’re here to help and will respond promptly.

To share feedback, visit our Testimonials Page—your input helps us grow and better serve our community.

We’re excited to support you on your pathway to success!