Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) qualifies individuals with physical or mental disabilities that create a substantial barrier to employment, including conditions like brain injuries, autism, ADHD, mental health issues (depression, anxiety), vision/hearing loss, chronic pain, learning disabilities (dyslexia), and substance use disorders, provided they can benefit from services to find, keep, or advance in a job. Eligibility hinges on needing VR services to overcome the employment barrier, with specific requirements varying slightly by state, but generally requiring an assessment of your disability and employment goal. Examples of Qualifying Disabilities Physical: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), spinal cord injuries, chronic pain, amputation, arthritis, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis. Sensory: Blindness, vision impairment, deafness, hard of hearing. Mental/Behavioral Health: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders (alcohol/drug addiction). Neurodevelopmental/Learning: Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, other learning disabilities. Other: Cancer, heart disease, epilepsy, intellectual disabilities, chronic illnesses like cystic fibrosis, end-stage renal disease, or sickle cell anemia. Key Eligibility Criteria A Physical or Mental Impairment: A documented condition that limits your ability to work. A Substantial Barrier: The disability must make finding, keeping, or advancing in a job difficult. Rehabilitation Potential: You must be able to benefit from VR services to achieve an employment goal. Need for Services: You require VR assistance (counseling, training, accommodations, etc.) to overcome your barrier. How to Apply Contact your states Vocational Rehabilitation agency (often part of Labor or Health Human Services). A VR counselor will assess your medical information, interests, strengths, and needs. Youll work together to create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), outlining your goals and services. AI can make mistakes, so double-check responsesVocational Rehabilitation - Adults - Texas Workforce CommissionDisabilities We Serve Examples of Disabilities: Vision loss, deafblind, or blindness disabilities. Psychological or mental health Texas Workforce Commission (.gov)Vocational rehabilitation |Workers with a Disability |CareerOneStopCareers and Career Information - CareerOneStop