Some Support • Mid-Career • Goal 4:
Re-evaluate Need for Formal and Informal Job Supports
Action step 1.
Explore Vocational Rehabilitation services.
Each state has a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR or Voc Rehab) agency that provides employment services to people with disabilities, including autism, so they can obtain and keep jobs. There may be several VR offices in big cities, whereas in rural areas, there may only be one office that serves many counties. VR is paid for by the federal and state government, and you may be eligible if you apply.
You can also access vocational training services through other disability employment programs, such as Social Security's Ticket to Work.
Resources
- From the Council of State Administrators for Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) - Directory of state VR agencies
- From the American Job Center - Explore options for developing your skills
- From Independent Living Centers (ILCs) - Access job coaching, training and information to live independently
- From Ticket to Work - Access job search, job training and career development services for Social Security recipients
- From Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) - Rehabilitation Research and Training Center
Words to know
Action step 2.
Plan for increased support needs during transition.
The first few weeks at a new job are the most stressful, but you can plan ahead to make sure your needs will be addressed through workplace supports.
- Create a schedule, visual routine or task checklist.
- Find allies in the workplace who can answer questions and give advice.
- Reach out to family, friends and service providers if you aren’t sure how to handle a situation.
- Develop stress management strategies for during and after your shift.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 3.
Consider alternatives to formal services.
If you don’t qualify for formal employment services such as VR or don’t need that level of support, consider natural supports as an alternative. These are supports that emerge organically as you engage with the people in your environment. This can look like:
- Communicating with coworkers or supervisors who can serve as mentors.
- Meeting with HR about accommodation needs.
- Making simple accommodations for yourself, like creating a job task checklist or wearing earplugs.
