Obstacles to Vocational Rehabilitation: The Clients' Perspectives

Abstract

The research literature indicates that vocational rehabilitation services are underutilized in many drug treatment programs. This study explored the perceptions of drug treatmentclients concerning use of vocational/educational (V/E) services. Clients from four methadone maintenance treatment clinics were Interviewed regarding: (a) types of VIE services received and desired by clients, (b) perceived obstacles to the use of clinic V/E services, and (c) client/clinic characteristics that may affect service utilization. Although Individuals generally reported receiving vocational counseling, many desired more job placement, vocational training, or educational assistance. Vocational counseling was seldom cited as a desired service; however, results indicated a need for such counseling with certain clients. Client- and clinic-level obstacles to service utilization are reported and ways to enhance service delivery are discussed.

Workers’ Perspectives on Vocational Rehabilitation Services

“…Respondents in the Koletsi et al study also felt that they would have appreciated more assistance during job search/application, more job preparation, more advice regarding benefits, and additional support for several other job-related factors. Similar to Koletsi et al, Brewington, Deren, Arella, and Randell (1990) also reported that their respondents desired more vocational counseling, job placement, vocational training, and/or educational assistance. Furthermore, Koch (2001) reported that plan development and assistance with planning for employment were highly valued services among VR participants.…”

The Effectiveness of Vocational Services for Substance Users in Treatment

“…Certainly the quest to develop more improved vocational programs for substance user treatment clients faces difficult challenges (Atkinson et al, 2001;Brewington et al, 1990;Zanis et al, 1994). Introducing or reintroducing clients to the workforce involves many issues: client inability to control substance misuse; physical and mental disabilities that impede work performance but are not severe enough to qualify for disability benefits; employer reluctance to hiring persons with addiction and/or criminal histories; despite ''welfare reform,'' continuing public assistance disincentives to seek on-the-books work; transportation and child care costs; lack of work skills, education or experience; lack of job search and interviewing skills; inadequate self-confidence and persistence; treatment program requirements that conflict with employment; and concern about revealing treatment status.…”

Vocational rehabilitation of drug abusers.

“…The relationship between crime and the maintenance of addiction has also been found among those involved in vocational rehabilitation programs (Brewington, Deren, Arella, & Randell, 1990). The most detailed study of this relationship was probably that of Faupel (1988); for this reason, it is reviewed here in some detail.…”

“…For the client, unrealistic expectations may severely hamper his or her ability to find work. In a study of 40 clients in four methadone maintenance clinics, only those individuals involved in rehabilitation programs were seen as having realistic vocational aspirations (i.e., those consonant with training or experience; Brewington et al, 1990). Even among those who were employed at that time, 25% had unrealistic vocational expectations (Brewington et al, 1990).…”