Vocational Rehabilitation – Navigating Blindness

If your blind child or student plans to attend college, this post is for you! It includes a summary of important information regarding transition services, followed by an overview of our personal experiences with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). And even if you don’t live in Georgia this post provides a great foundation for understanding what may be available in your state.

What is vocational rehabilitation?

The Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) helps individuals with disabilities secure, maintain, or regain employment through personalized services, including career counseling, training, funding, and assistive technology. Serving individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities, the agency offers comprehensive, customized support to foster independence and career growth across the state.

(Note: Some states have a Commission for the Blind that specifically services blind and low vision individuals. Georgia does not.)

I’ve heard it’s a real pain to deal with this program. Is it?

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By our guest, Janice Barrocas, LPC, CRC

The transition to college or a career can be overwhelming for students with vision loss, and therapy can offer vital support during this pivotal time. There are so many questions. Unsure when to apply for vocational rehabilitation services? Surprised to find the school district wants loaned accessibility equipment back? Scrambling to secure more orientation and mobility (O&M) training on short notice to travel independently on an unfamiliar campus? Struggling with self-advocacy as parents who previously took the lead in communicating with teachers step back? Therapy helps young adults process these challenges, build confidence, and develop the emotional resilience and practical skills needed for a more successful and empowered transition.

Adjusting to vision loss counseling is essential for individuals and families coping with blindness, low vision, or progressive vision loss. Beyond the physical challenges, vision loss can lead to grief, anxiety, depression, and a loss of independence. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) Janice Barrocas has dedicated her career to helping people navigate these challenges through her specialized counseling practice, Adjusting to Vision Loss.

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