WAC 67-25-273. Vocational rehabilitation services — Counseling and guidance

(1) Counseling and guidance services, based on needs of the individual, shall be available throughout all phases of the rehabilitation process to assist the participant with:

(a) Adjustment to blindness and other disabilities; understanding the importance of developing and using adaptive skills of blindness; and, identifying strategies to overcome negative social attitudes regarding disability;

(b) Identifying the participant's unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, and capabilities related to planning for and achieving a competitive and integrated employment outcome;

(c) Identifying and overcoming potential barriers to achieving a competitive and integrated employment outcome, including disability-related, personal, and social factors;

(d) Selecting a competitive and integrated employment outcome consistent with the participant's abilities, capabilities, and interests;

(e) Obtaining and utilizing resource information to make meaningful and informed choices regarding selection of vocational rehabilitation goals, objectives, services, and providers;

(f) Overcoming potential barriers and achieving a competitive and integrated employment outcome through development of skills such as: Study and work habits; grooming; management of finances; preparation for job interviews and tests; self-advocacy; and effective interpersonal relationships.

(2) Counseling and guidance services may also be provided to:

(a) Assist family members to effectively participate in the rehabilitation process;

(b) Assist prospective employers to develop positive attitudes regarding hiring and accommodating individuals who are blind.

(3) Counseling and guidance shall be provided without consideration of comparable services and benefits in accordance with WAC 67-25-283 .