Services for Individuals with Disabilities

You can apply for VR services at any one of our Career Offices closest to you.

You may also apply by completing the online Start My VR self-referral and someone will contact you to schedule an appointment.

If you need help locating an office in your area, please send an email to vr.office.locator@twc.Texas.gov or call 512-936-6400.

VR services are individualized to meet the needs of each participant. Services support the development of knowledge, skills, abilities, resources, and behaviors needed to reach the employment goal. We are here to assist you in gaining the skills needed for a career, learn how to prepare for a job, or provide you with the accommodations needed to stay employed. These are just a few ways VR helps people with disabilities increase productivity and independence.

Training and Counseling

Receive personalized support to develop job-related skills and create effective career plans. VR counselors work with you to identify your strengths and areas for improvement, helping you to build a solid foundation for career success.

Medical Services

Gain access to necessary medical treatments and services that support your ability to work. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other medical interventions that improve your functional capacity.

Assistive Devices

Provision of artificial limbs, hearing aids, and other assistive devices to enhance your functionality and independence. These devices are tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring you can perform job tasks effectively.

Transportation Assistance

Receive help with travel arrangements to ensure you can reliably get to and from work. This includes access to public transportation options, specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities, and travel vouchers.

Communication Support

Utilize sign language interpreters, Braille instructions, and other communication aids to support individuals with hearing or visual impairments. These services ensure effective communication and full participation in job-related activities.

Orientation and Mobility Instruction

Training for individuals with visual impairments to navigate workplaces and public spaces safely. This instruction helps you develop the skills needed to move confidently and independently within your work environment.

On-the-Job Supports

Benefit from continued support as you acclimate to a new job. This includes job coaching, workplace accommodations, and regular check-ins to ensure you are adjusting well and addressing any challenges that arise.

Job Placement Assistance

Receive help in finding employment opportunities that match your skills and interests. VR job placement specialists work closely with local employers to identify suitable job openings and facilitate connections.

Workplace Accommodations

Ensure a safe and supportive work environment through customized accommodations. VR counselors and business relations coordinators work with you and your employer to identify and implement necessary adjustments, such as ergonomic workstations, modified work schedules, or specialized equipment, to ensure workplace inclusion with the goal of having a positive job match for both the business and employee.

A student with a disability is between 14-22 years old and has supporting documentation of a disability.

Documentation of disability includes:

• Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
• Receiving services under IDEA (Special Education)
• Receiving services through a 504 plan, or
• A formal diagnosis from a medical professional.

The student must be enrolled in a secondary school, postsecondary school, or a recognized educational program. This includes a public, private, charter, homeschooling or other educational settings, including juvenile justice facilities.

Career Exploration

• Assess vocational skills and interests
• Learn "what's HOT" and "what's NOT" in the job market
• Learn about vocational opportunities

Work-Based Learning

• Discover paid/unpaid internships
• Tour professional job sites
• Experience job shadowing and simulated work environments
• Gain understanding through career mentorship

Post-Secondary Education Counseling

Counselors help:

• Match abilities and interests with education opportunities
• Assist with college enrollment
• Identify financial aid options

Work Readiness

• Practice essential or "soft" skills
• Communicate effectively
• Manage time and money responsibly
• Learn how to use transportation
• Be ready!

Self-Advocacy

• Understand rights and responsibilities regarding disability, including disclosure
• Know when to ask for help and accommodations
• Remember: you are in charge!