Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

A few weeks ago, I applied for services through the Division of Vocational Services (DVR).

I arrived a half hour early to fill out the required paperwork. Thankfully, I brought my resume. Even so the process took me 50 minutes, probably because I have worked in a total of five jobs over the last ten years. Other people didn't seem to need much time at all. 

They wanted a copy of my driver's license and social security card. Didn't know to bring the latter, so I put it in my wallet for my next appointment as soon as I got home. I attended the obligatory thirty minute orientation.

The next day, I was called and scheduled for an appointment.

I met for the first time with my DVR counselor today. He explained that my diagnosis of AD/HD qualified me for services. The psychologist's report I had sent over ahead of time met DVR's requirements for diagnosis. One less hoop to jump through.

I found it encouraging that the counselor was willing to consider my goal to earn a four year degree in psychology. To get the process rolling, I will first need to take a number of steps. 

In a few weeks, I will take the World of Work Inventory. I was told it would take two hours. 

In the meantime, I have been asked to commit to a career choice for my degree choice. To do so, he provided me with links to three websites to begin doing that research. There must be job market demand for my choice. Fortunately, counseling and other social service types of jobs are in demand in our area.

My counselor earned his degree in psychology immediately following high school. He then earned his masters degree while working over a two and a half year period.

He has worked in a state hospital and as a chemical dependency counselor. He taught school and later worked as a high school counselor. Today he works for DVR. He has two AD/HD children and gardens as a hobby. He came across as educated and non-judgemental. I genuinely liked him and felt his questions and the information he provided were appropriate.

He was relieved to hear that I wouldn't be ready to start school until January 2009. He explained that this would give them the time needed. We'll meet again later in May.

I'm nervous and excited at the same time...

Grandma Lise