Career Support
Who we help
We provide career services to people who are Blind, Deaf-Blind, or Low Vision and need the skills to get, keep or get promoted in a job
How we help
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is the process that helps people with disabilities overcome barriers to accessing, continuing, or returning to work. VR agencies, like DSB, help their participants prepare for, obtain, maintain, or regain employment. The goal of vocational rehabilitation is to prepare you for work. We can help determine your strengths, identify what type of support you need on the job, and create a training plan.
Training and preparation
If you have a vision impairment that makes employment hard for you, you may be eligible for services to help you prepare for, obtain, maintain or advance in a job. Our training often covers:
- Skills for adapting to vision loss
- Orientation and mobility
- Assistive technology
- Job-seeking skills
- Talking about your disability in the workplace
- Employer expectations
- Communication and problem-solving
We may also help you find a college or trade school if you are underemployed or need certification to keep your current job.
DSB can also provide assistive technology evaluation and training, information and referrals services to help individuals gain and retain employment.
People who need more intensive skills of blindness training in Orientation & Mobility, Braille, and accessible computer usage may be eligible to attend the Orientation and Training Center (OTC) for daily, on-site instruction in these and other topics.
Support with your job search
After you complete your training plan, your counselor will make sure you have:
- Documents with information that employers need
- Any required certifications or licenses
- Accommodations you will need on the job
- Job-seeking skills for the current job market
Once you are ready to work, you will take the lead on looking for a job. You may also receive help from your counselor or private contractors in your community.
Get started
If you have vision loss and need help with starting or continuing your career, contact us.
- Request information online
- Call us 800-552-7103
- Email us at info@dsb.wa.gov
In this section
Take the next step
Learn more about how DSB can help. Call our 800 number or use the online form to request information for yourself, a friend or loved one, or a patient, client or staff member. A DSB representative will call to discuss options.
The first thing that I learned is acceptance of my blindness. DSB gave me permission to accept my blindness.