Vocational Opportunities

Vocational Testing:

Vocational Testing is performed through a collaborative effort involving psychology, occupational therapy and other disciplines as indicated, to address the individual issues and concerns of a client. The Strong Interest Inventory and Self Directed Search are utilized as well as selected other tests to address each individual's specific needs.

Pre-Vocational Workshop:

The pre-vocational workshop program is designed to develop employment skills of clients in a work type setting. Emphasis is placed on acceptable work attitudes such as appropriate behavior, dress, time management, following directions, attention to task, staying on task, etc. For those clients who are not candidates for employment, the workshop provides them with an opportunity to feel productive. Designing and working on crafts allows them to develop self-esteem, confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Supported Employment:

Re-entry into the competitive work force is an opportunity which the Lighthouse strives to make available to clients who show potential for being successful in a work environment. The vocational team goes into the community and locates potential employment sites which match the capabilities of individual clients to encourage a positive work experience.

I. Vocational Director

The Vocational Director is specially trained in vocational development, supportive employment, job counseling, and time management studies. Clients are individually evaluated for strengths, weaknesses and abilities as related to employment potential.

II. Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapy Department provides assessments of work sites addressing safety issues, task analysis, and the simplification of job responsibilities specific to each individual's abilities. These assessments are regularly reviewed and revised to assist the client in being successful with the job placement.

III. Job Coach

The Lighthouse job coaches are professionally trained through the Michigan State University Technical Assistance Program. Upon completion of their training, our job coaches are certified as Employment Training Specialists. They actively seek out employment opportunities and provide supervision, direction and follow-up for clients who re-enter the competitive work force.