Journal of Education & Social Policy

"Not my job", or is it: School Counselor's Perceptions of Collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors
Elizabeth S. G. Dimond, Michelle McKnight, Trenton J. Landon, Jarhed Peña, Kayla R. Currier Kipping

Abstract
Students with disabilities (SWD) face obstacles in completing their high school education and deciding on their next steps, such as college or careers. This qualitative study used inductive thematic analysis to explore the perspectives of secondary school counselors on their experiences collaborating with vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors and their knowledge of the services they provide. Study participants were identified through national and state-level professional school counselor associations and included 159 secondary school counselors. Participants answered five open-ended questions regarding their beliefs and collaborative practices with VR counselors. Results indicated that many school counselors are aware of VR services but lack the basic information needed to collaborate effectively and have experienced barriers to collaboration with their local VR system. There is a need for additional training and knowledge to enable school counselors to engage in the postsecondary transition process for SWD. Recommendations for future practice were provided.

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