Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Assistive Technology Services & The Vocational Rehabilitation Process

Assistive technology services are an integral part of the VR process. The VR counselor and AT specialist team to determine the AT needs of the participant and required AT services. Referrals to AT specialists are typically made upon the development of an Individual Plan for Employment (IPE); admittance into an academic or vocational program; and upon employment. The initial assessment identifies the skill level of the participant in relation to utilizing adaptive technology and determines what technology and/or training would best meet the needs, enable the participant to fully participate in the VR process, and support the objectives of the IPE. Additional assessments and evaluations are conducted to accommodate specific placements (school, internship, employment, etc.) and recommendations for accommodation are made to the VR counselor and/or employer.