There are a number of programs available for people with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities who are both willing and able to work. One type of vocational training for the disabled is job placement, which may assist people in finding a job that is appropriate for their level of ability. Training programs are also available to assist people in learning skills that they will need in the workplace, and may also include on-the-job training. In some cases, a person may have the opportunity to meet individually with a vocational counselor, who helps to identify available career paths for an individual’s ability, personality, and interests. The overall goal of vocational training for the disabled is to help people find fulfilling and productive careers.
Job placement services may be available for disabled people through community organizations, government programs, or a variety of other support services. Individual corporations also sometimes have career centers that focus on identifying job opportunities that are appropriate for those with special needs, and on recruiting people for those positions. Some professional headhunters and employment agencies also have specialized divisions or focus exclusively on placing disabled people in jobs. In some cases, these agencies may also provide services such as resume writing or consulting, interview coaching, and other professional services. Along with job placement assistance, these organizations sometimes provide transportation and other assistance with getting to interviews.
Professional education programs are another type of vocational training for the disabled. People with disabilities may need to learn how to perform job tasks in ways that account for any limitations they may have. If they are unable to participate in group training sessions or classes, individual instruction or specialized equipment may be provided to facilitate learning. Online courses are often available for those who have difficulty traveling or who need to work at an individualized pace. Sometimes, tuition assistance for professional education programs is available through various agencies that provide services for disabled people.
Personalized counselors may also provide vocational training for the disabled. A person with disabilities may have the ability to meet with a counselor who conducts a variety of assessments to measure his or her personality type, professional interests, and abilities. The counselor will then meet individually with the job seeker to identify potential career paths that would be suitable, and may be able to help with placement. Sometimes, vocational counselors have relationships with companies that focus on hiring disabled people.
