ABSTRACT
This study explored the perceived external and internal issues that may have an effect on collaborative ventures designed to provide vocational rehabilitation services to persons with substance use disorders. Participants in the study were professionals from substance abuse (SA) treatment and vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies in 1 state located in the north central United States. Analyses revealed SA professionals to have higher perceptions of their abilities in working with clients with substance use disorders than did VR professionals. In addition, participants ranked 10 potential barriers to employment for individuals with substance use disorders and provided 3 potential barriers to collaboration. The rankings of potential barriers to employment for clients with substance use disorders were similar for the 2 groups; however, SA professionals placed more emphasis on internal barriers, whereas VR counselors placed more emphasis on external barriers. The most frequently reported barriers to collaboration were client-related issues and agency-related issues.
Notes
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center. (1996). Substance abuse, disability, and vocational rehabilitation. (Available from the National Clearing House of Rehabilitation Training Materials, 816 W. 6th Street. Stillwater, OK 74078-0434)