What are VR services and who can get them?
VR stands for Vocational Rehabilitation. These services help youth and adults with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment through an individualized employment plan. If you have physical, mental, or learning disability that makes it hard to find a job or keep a job, you may qualify for VR services at no cost to you from the state of CT. The agency that provides these services in CT is the Aging and Disability Services (ADS) at the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS).
Do I keep these services forever?
If you meet the requirements and are approved for services, you have access to a variety of programs and resources with the help of BRS. These services are available to you for as long as you need them to achieve your employment needs. There is no specific end date. Your VR counselor will work with you to set specific goals and develop your individualized employment plan (IEP). Your plan will look different than that of others and can change over time, therefore the length of time you receive services can vary.
What happens if I need services again in the future. Can I reapply for VR services?
Yes! You can reapply for VR services at any time if your needs change. Maybe you want to:
- Start post-secondary education for a better career
- Find a different type of work
- Go back to work after a health problem
- Current job changes and you are having difficulty with new tasks
- Improve your current job situation through additional training or advance on the job
- There are changes to your disability and you need additional or new supports
You'll need to go through the application process again. Your VR counselor can help you and will check if you still qualify for services.
What services might I get through VR?
VR services are different for each person based on your individualized employment plan. You might get help with:
- Post-secondary education
- Career pathways planning
- Guidance and counseling
- Job search and placement
- Resume writing and interview skills
- Job skills exploration and training
- On-the-job support
How do I get started with VR services?
If you are an adult, you can get started by:
- Complete the online Contact Us form or
- Find your local state VR office and call or visit to schedule an appointment
- Prepare for your appointment:
- Gather and bring medical records about your disability to your appointment
- Think about goals so that you can be prepared to talk about them. The counselor will help you complete your application. Once approved, work with your counselor to create your individualized employment plan. The approval process can take up to 60 days once the application has been submitted.
For youth and adults under the care of a parent or guardian, the responsible adult will need to be part of the process. As a parent you can be a great support for your child.
What if I disagree with VR decisions?
You have rights if you disagree with VR decisions. You can:
- Talk to your counselor's supervisor
- Request mediation (neutral person helps solve problems)
- File a formal appeal
- Ask for a different counselor
- Get help from disability advocacy groups
Are there other job support services in CT besides the VR services provided by BRS?
Yes! Other job support options include:
- Ticket to Work program (for Social Security beneficiaries)
- American Job Centers
- Disability employment networks
- Local disability organizations
- Community job training programs
CT’s Bureau of Rehabilitation Services also works with these agencies and other groups in the community to support your needs.
Remember: VR services through your individualized employment plan can make a big difference in helping you find and keep meaningful work