Preparing to return to work after an injury can cause uncertainty, especially if you have not yet completed your recovery. Depending on your injury, you might have lost the skills or mobility to perform your former job duties.
Vocational rehabilitation is one resource that you can use to help you prepare for your return to the workplace. Knowing its benefits can help you determine whether it will be of use in your situation.
Understanding therapy
There are numerous parts of vocational therapy that can help you revamp your resume, identify your transferrable skills, and learn and develop new skills. You can also learn about what working might look like with your condition. According to the United States Department of Labor, vocational rehabilitation could also include a return-to-work strategy that can guide you through the process of reentering the workforce.
Your recovery plan will require the input of medical professionals, as well as your employer if you have been able to maintain your job despite your injury. Incorporating therapy into your recovery may expedite the process of returning to work.
Utilizing therapy
When you participate in vocational rehabilitation, following the advice of professionals can optimize your experience. If at any point you feel the help you receive is no longer making a difference, communicate your concerns so your plan can receive any necessary modifications to keep it functional for your needs.
There is no concrete time for the duration of vocational therapy. Many factors could impact your experience including your career choice, your skill set, the degree of your injury, the likelihood of a full recovery and the support system you have. Vocational rehabilitation is often a part of workers’ compensation benefits.