Exploring Vocational Evaluation Practices following Traumatic Brain Injury.
BACKGROUND
Individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) face many challenges when attempting to return to work (RTW). Vocational evaluation (VE) is a systematic process that involves assessment and appraisal of an individual's current work-related characteristics and abilities.


OBJECTIVE
The aims of this study are to (1) examine demographic and employment characteristics of vocational rehabilitation providers (VRPs), (2) identify the specific evaluation methods that are used in the VE of individuals with TBI, and (3) examine the differences in assessment method practices based upon evaluator assessment preferences.


METHODS
This exploratory case study used a forty-six-item online survey which was distributed to VRPs.


RESULTS
One hundred and nine VRPs accessed the survey. Of these, 74 completed the survey. A majority of respondents were female (79.7%), Caucasian (71.6%), and holding a master's degree (74.3%), and more than half (56.8%) were employed as state vocational rehabilitation counselors (VRCs). In addition, over two-thirds (67.6%) were certified rehabilitation counselors (CRCs). Respondents reported using several specific tools and assessments during the VE process.


CONCLUSIONS
Study findings reveal differences in use of and rationales for specific assessments amongst VRPs. Understanding VRP assessment practices and use of an evidence-based framework for VE following TBI may inform and improve VE practice.
Department of Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, MHC 1632, Tampa, FL 33612-3807, USA.
Christina
C
Dillahunt-Aspillaga
Department of Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, MHC 1632, Tampa, FL 33612-3807, USA.
Tammy
T
Jorgensen Smith
College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, MHC 1139, Tampa, FL 33612-3807, USA.
Ardis
A
Hanson
American Legacy Foundation, 1724 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA.
Sarah
S
Ehlke
Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, 160-500 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, Canada M5G 1V7.
Mary
M
Stergiou-Kita
C.G. Dixon & Associates Inc., 42 S. Ingram Street, Alexandria, VA 22304, USA.
Charlotte G
CG
Dixon
Department of Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B Downs Boulevard, MHC 1632, Tampa, FL 33612-3807, USA.
Davina
D
Quichocho
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult