Vocational Rehabilitation Interview

Introduction, by Dr. Michael Grodin
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After survivors of torture are granted authorization to work in the USA, they often require assistance in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. You, as a vocational rehabilitation specialist, should work toward the following objectives with your clients: Vocational integration, establishment of trust, selection of appropriate employment, employer education, facilitation of safety, and monitoring of progress. The film you are about to see depicts a vocational rehabilitation specialist and survivor of torture who are beginning the job search process. The corresponding bullet points explain and supplement the material shown in the film. For convenience, only feminine pronouns will be used in the following text corresponding to the female client in the film. Make every effort to avoid re-traumatization via interrogation-like techniques. It is best to proceed slowly and to use interpreters who are culturally sensitive.

Interview Content, by George Clark

• Rather than an aggressive, hearty greeting, welcome the client in a subtle, calming way. Remember that you are a new person in her life and that she may be unsure or reserved about your relationship with her.
• Ask the client if she understands the purpose of her visit with you. Even if she says that she is aware of the reasons for seeing you, be sure to explain to her how she was referred to you and the way in which you intend to assist her. Also, ask her if you can take notes while conducting the interview, and let her know what they will be used for. Maintain eye contact even while taken notes.
• After establishing a rapport that affirms joint efforts in improving her workforce entry experience, obtain information on her work history, present work situation, and current living environment.
• The first visit should not be long or devoted completely to data collection. It should be introductory, confirming, supportive, and inviting of continuation.
• Give your client an overview of the job market and job searching process in the USA. Explain the concepts of short-term and long-term career goals and let her know that her own interests and goals will guide your joint efforts in finding her meaningful employment.
• From the time of her trauma experience to her arrival in the USA, she as a former asylum seeker has been receiving instructions and relying on others for her survival and/or support. It is not likely that many people have considered her thoughts or opinions.
• Asking your client about her present or earlier thoughts and aspirations regarding vocation empowers her, perhaps for the first time.
• When, as a provider, you make recommendations that you think are appropriate, be sure to always ask your client what she thinks before finalizing decisions.
• It is helpful to give the client a memorable reminder of the meeting, such as a notebook. This item is not only valuable as a reminder that she is no longer seeking employment alone, but also because it provides a way for your client to record her thoughts throughout the day. These thoughts may concern aspirations, workforce entry activities, and vocational experiences. Survivors often want to talk about their experiences but forget their thoughts because of anxiety, confusion, or feelings of being overwhelmed. With a notebook, your client can write when thoughts come to her and retrieve them when she chooses to talk about them.
• Finally, end the session by making another appointment and assuring your client that you will be assisting her throughout this process.