The Center for Rehabilitation Counseling Research and Education
Technical Assistance and Continuing Education Center
The George Washington University
Region 3 E-NEWSLETTER
Winter 2014
Recent and Current Training Opportunities & News
Current Trainings:
ACRE Employment Certificate Online Training Cohorts:
This 8-week course, offered in collaboration with TransCen, Inc. provides six- 90 minute
webinars during the first 6 weeks of the course, which is equivalent to 9 hours. The remaining 19
hours of instruction are met through a self-paced review of the vast resources and completion of
field based assignments. These field based assignments provide opportunity to apply
employment tools and strategies presented in the course with specific job seekers and employers.
Continuous Rapid Courses
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HIV/AIDS and Employment
HIV/AIDS Medical Aspects
Overview of the State Rehabilitation Council
Intro to Motivational Interviewing
2012 Updates to the CRC Code of Ethics
Working with Diverse Populations in Rehabilitation Counseling
Introduction to Case Management
Issues in Job Placement and Retention
Introduction to Psychosocial Aspects of Disability
Funding Assistive Technology
Online Blackboard Courses
The George Washington University Region 3 TACE Center offers a variety of online continuing
education courses for rehabilitation professionals. These trainings are meant to address topical
and relevant topics within the field and are of no cost to employees of state VR agencies and
their community rehab partners in Region 3. Courses typically run for 4-6 weeks with
participants dedicating around two hours each week for assignments and discussion.
Letter From The Director
Letter from TACE Director:
Happy New Year!
I hope this newsletter finds you warm and in good health. As the GW TACE Center moves into
our last year of the TACE grant, we remain busy and focused on serving our partners in the MidAtlantic region. Our final ACRE training will wrap up next month and we are in the process of
planning for many of our learning communities to convene and continue their work in warmer
weather this spring and summer.
We have a number of learning community activities as well as on-line training opportunities
scheduled this winter/spring throughout the region as well as on-line. Please check out website
(http://www.gwcrcre.org) regularly for updates.
We wish to welcome two new staff members to the TACE. Melissa Diehl, formerly of Maryland
DORS, is joining us as a Senior TACE Associate. Jordan Hammes, a current GW doctoral
student, will be helping us as a TACE Assistant. We are fortunate to have two great staff
additions and they look forward to meeting and serving you.
On behalf of the TACE staff we look forward to seeing you at many of the events outlined in our
Newsletter.
Maureen McGuire-Kuletz, Ed.D, CRC
GW TACE 3 Director
Announcements!!!
Upcoming Courses:
Changes to the DSM V Rapid Course
This rapid course is designed to enhance participant’s knowledge of the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM V). This course will identify new diagnoses and
changes made to the diagnostic criteria for disorders and groupings of disorders. To receive CRC
credits for this course, participants must complete a 10 question quiz and achieve a minimum
score of 70%.
Critical Thinking Rapid Course
This rapid course will engage participants in Thinking more deeply by examining and reflecting
on the principles of reasoning. This course will address how Critical Thinkers address an issue
with clarity and reason. To receive CRC credits for this course, participants must achieve a
minimum quiz score of 70%.
Professional Self Care: Building Resilience and Retention
Instructor: Shari Matray
This online blackboard course is designed to look at the role of state vocational rehabilitation
professionals and the stressors associated with that role. Participants will evaluate their
perceptions of stressors relating to their position. They will look at proactive coping strategies
and lifestyle choices to increase their coping skills and satisfaction with their professional roles.
Additionally each participant will develop a self care plan for managing stress and for
maximizing coping skills to build resiliency and job retention. In order to make this a more
valuable experience for all parties involved, your participation in weekly interactive online
discussions and a final course assignment (your self care plan) is required. Participants will
receive ten continuing education credits for their participation and completion of the course.
Ethics for VR Professionals
Instructor: Melissa Diehl
This course is intended to provide a general overview and refresher relating to current topics in
Ethics and the provision of rehabilitation services in the vocational rehabilitation setting. After
completing this continuing education course, participants will be able to: describe different
ethical theories that provide the framework for the foundations of ethics, differentiate and define
morals, values and ethics, describe what is meant by ethical principles and ethical virtues,
understand and apply the concepts of confidentiality and privileged communications, evaluate
how to manage situations ethically, analyze and apply two distinct ethical dilemma resolution
models. Participants will receive ten continuing education credits for their participation and
completion of the course.
National Employment Team (NET) Training
Welcome to the free NET online course! The goal of this course is to develop a common vision
and direction related to building the NET at the state, multi-state and national level. The course
will include a discussion of key philosophical changes, such as VR working as "one company"
with a "dual customer" focus. In addition the course will address how, who and why a national
network with business is important to the success of VR customers (business and job seekers),
and the national VR program. Successful completion of the quiz at the conclusion of the course
is required to receive 4 CRC credits OR a certificate of completion. Access this free training and
many more at http://www.tace5.siu.edu/webcourses/
Remember!
Our TACE partners for their free webinars:
TACE Region 2
TACE Region 4
TACE Region 5
TACE Region 7
Learning Community Updates
Mid-Atlantic Transition Leadership Council
In November, this group had to say goodbye to one of its longstanding members. The passing of
Tom Barkley, Maryland’s Statewide Transition Specialist, was the loss of a caring and
knowledgeable leader and courageous advocate for students and their families. He was a
tremendous resource for those of us in the field. He will be missed.
This Council remains very active as they continue to hold monthly meetings virtually as they
continue the development of an Early Start Family Guide, targeted to families of young children.
The group anticipates having each of the four sections of the guide drafted over the next few
months and ready to be pulled together. The group will meet again virtually in March 2014.
VR Business NETwork Learning Community
This group is comprised of VR Business Points of Contact for each VR agency in the region and
connects nationally through the Net. The mission of the group is to bring together the region’s
VR agency business representatives to explore, exchange, and develop promising practices in
partnerships with businesses and consumers.
The TACE worked with CSAVR and Kathy West Evans and Kris Korso to host a Webinar,
December 18, 2013 on the Talent Acquisition Portal (TAP) for the VR Business NETwork
Learning Community Members.
Community Rehabilitation Provider Liaison Learning Community
This learning community, comprised of the Provider Liaison for each VR agency in the region,
has proven to be a tremendous resource for sharing and improving practices among their own
Learning Community, as well as with other Learning Communities within the Region. The group
developed a Region-wide provider needs assessment to identify regional trends and training
needs of community rehabilitation providers. The group will meet virtually to discuss next steps
in February.
Mid-Atlantic Training Coordinator Learning Community
Training Coordinators for the eight VR agencies in the Mid-Atlantic Region are scheduled to
meet on January 27, 2014. The Learning Community will begin to strategize on ways to
prioritize and implement the goals it established for this year including: the development of
additional training tools and technology; improved data collection and utilization processes;
standardized training modules (online; hybrid offering through TACE); creation of a Blackboard
site to share training resources state-to-state; and increasing staff development opportunities on
tight budgets. Additionally, Learning Community members developed a Region 3 staff training
needs assessment to identify priority training needs. Data collected throughout the Region will
assist Learning Community members as well as the TACE Center.
Fiscal Learning Community
This learning community continues to support members and share practices. This year the group
is committed to developing fiscal resources and online training tools geared for counselors and
staff in VR non fiscal positions. Stay tuned!
Data Learning Community
Learning community members continue to collaborate with one another to address upcoming
changes to RSA 911 data collection processes and to share emerging practices throughout the
region. Members attended the RSA Webinar on 11/6/2013 for the RSA-911 changes in case
reporting.
State Coordinators for VR Services for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf-Blind Learning
Community (SCD/HH/DB LC)
The next LC meeting is scheduled for April 29 and 30, 2014.
Region 3 State Rehabilitation Council Learning Community (SRC LC)
During the LC’s last meeting, the group shared accomplishments, promising practices and
challenges. The ongoing challenge of recruitment, mentoring new members, keeping members
engaged, leadership development and succession planning, were common discussion topics
among the councils. LC members will look at ways to share best practices, resources, tools and
information to meet their challenges. The next LC meeting is scheduled for March 26 and 27,
2014.
Mid-Atlantic SILC Learning Community
The Mid-Atlantic SILC learning community is comprised of SILC staff and members from
across the region. In partnership with ILRU, the TACE continues to sponsor SILC and CIL
members and staff to enroll in ILRU online training opportunities. The TACE Center continues
to support the Region and their SILCs as they develop and implement their three-year State Plans
for Independent Living.
Region 3 Randolph Sheppard Learning Community (RS LC) Meeting
When the RS LC met in October, 2013, a number of issues were discussed including : New
vendor training; Inventory procedures used when managers change; New technologies for BEP
facilities; Remaining relevant and profitable with a changing workforce; Healthy foods in
vending machines; How will Randolph Sheppard facilities look in the future? The next annual
meeting will be held in August, 2014- date and location to be determined. The next LC meeting
is scheduled for August 5 and 6, 2014.
Regional/National Updates
Pennsylvania Statewide Independent Living Council Welcomes Assistant Secretary Martinez
Federal employment initiatives for people with disabilities were the focus of assistant secretary
of labor for disability employment policy Kathy Martinez's remarks to the board members of the
Pennsylvania Statewide Independent Living Council and other representatives of the disability
community at a gathering on January 16 in Harrisburg, PA. Martinez addressed topics including
the Affordable Care Act, Executive Order 13548 (Increasing Federal Employment of Individuals
with Disabilities), changes to the regulations for Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act, and
resources available from the Office of Disability Employment Policy.
OMB approves form for voluntary self-ID
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has just approved the revised form for voluntary
self-identification of disability status by applicants and employees with disabilities who work for
organizations covered by Section 503 regulations. The form also includes a reasonable
accommodation notice and provides examples.
View the new form here.
Click here for information on the new Section 503 regulations, or visit www.askearn.org for
additional information and resources.
The Model State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation of Persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind,
Hard of Hearing, and Late-Deafened 2008
This document provides a chapter-by-chapter synopsis of the Model State Plan for
Vocational Rehabilitation of Persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard of Hearing or Late
Deafened (MSP). The full document provides comprehensive working information for
program assessment along with guidelines and resources for model program
development and delivery of vocational rehabilitation services leading to successful
employment outcomes for persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing and late
deafened.
The MSP was authored by vocational rehabilitation professionals who have extensive
experience in programs and services for these targeted populations. Although useful to
partners and other professionals, the MSP is targeted specifically for vocational
rehabilitation use.
The MSP recognizes that there are communication, technology, and psychosocial
differences among the sub-populations of persons with hearing loss, and therefore
addresses the unique needs of each.
The CSAVR has endorsed the MSP. Many states have successfully implemented it in
whole or in part. The Committee on Services for Individuals who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind,
Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened encourages state directors and state coordinators of
services for consumers with hearing loss to revisit the MSP.
The full document can be downloaded at no cost, or purchased in hard copy for $8.75 per
copy. Go to: www.lulu.com:80/content/2289052.
CRC Prep Course
The CRC Prep Course is designed to prepare counselors to sit for the Certified Rehabilitation
Counselor exam. This is a 7-week self-paced course that surveys the major topics covered on the
examination. The course is interactive and includes lectures, quizzes, and discussion boards for
participants to use as aids to their study materials. Additionally, the prep-course is intended to be
balanced with the everyday work/school lives of those participating.
A current CRC Prep Course is being taught by Dr. Michael O’Brien for the March examination.
There will be another CRC Prep Course offered for the July examination and the dates for the
course are to be determined.
If you would like to sit for the July 11-19, 2014 examination you must register and submit your
application to CRCC by February 17, 2014. Additional examination deadlines and dates can be
accessed through the links listed below.
Check out the next CRCC Exam
Application & Testing Dates
2014-2015 CRC Exam Schedule at:
http://www.crccertification.com/pages/crc_exam_schedule/83.php
Visit CRCC Website at:
http://www.crccertification.com/
Upcoming National Events
NCRE/RSA/CSAVR: National Rehabilitation Education Spring Conference: March 12 –14,
2014
Manhattan Beach, California
For more information, please visit: http://www.ncre.org/spring.html
NRA Government Affairs Summit: March 23-25, 2014
Alexandria, VA
For more information, please visit: http://www.nationalrehab.org
CSAVR Spring Conference: April 7-9, 2014
Bethesda, MD
For more information, please visit: http://www.rehabnetwork.org/
CANAR Midyear Training Conference: April 22-24, 2014
Albuquerque, NM
For more information, please visit: http://www.canar.org
Important State & Regional Dates & Events
PA SRC Meeting 2/5
WV SRC Meeting 2/6
DE DVI SRC Meeting 2/10
DE General SRC Meeting 2/10
MD SRC Meeting 2/14
VA General SRC Meeting 3/10
DC RSA SRC Meeting 3/13
WV SRC Meeting 4/3
DE General SRC Meeting 4/14
SCD/HD/DB LC Meeting 4/29-4/30
DE DVI SRC Meeting 5/5
PA SRC Meeting 5/7
MD SRC Meeting 5/7
DC RSA Meeting 5/8
Tech Points Online Modules
Self-Paced Online Training Modules
TECHPoints self-paced online training modules were launched in partnership with VA DARS.
The modules provide a framework to incorporate the evaluation of assistive technology needs of
consumers throughout the vocational rehabilitation process. These modules were developed in
conjunction with our TACE Expert, Tony Langton of Pathfinders Associates. Plans are under
way to open up this program to other states in the region. For additional information, please
contact Shari Matray at slmatray@gwu.edu
The Center for Rehabilitation Counseling Research & Education at The George Washington
University
2600 Virginia Avenue Suite 214
Washington DC 20037
Phone: 202-973-1550
Fax: 202-625-0010
E-mail: crcre@email.gwu.edu
The Center for Rehabilitation Counseling Research and Education (CRCRE) aims to enhance
research as well as to provide opportunities for growth and development to a diverse population.
The GW CRCRE is located within the GW Graduate School of Education and Human
Development and is the home to the Region 3 TACE Center, the Institute on Rehabilitation
Issues, and the National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute. If you would like additional
information on upcoming events as well as details on all the exciting things going on at the
TACE center, please feel free to visit our website: www.gwcrcre.org
Staff Directory
Phone: 202-973-1550
Fax: 202-625-0010
E-mail: crcre@email.gwu.edu
Dr. Andrea Casey
TACE Consultant
acasey@gwu.edu
Melissa Diehl
Senior Research Associate
mpdiehl@email.gwu.edu
Dr. Robert Froehlich
Asst. Director/Adjunct Professor
rfro@gwu.edu
Eileen Haase
Project Coordinator (CSPD)
erh@gwmail.gwu.edu
Jordan Hammes
Research Assistant
jphammes@gwu.edu
Thomas Jennings
TACE Consultant
thomasjennings@comcast.net
Victoria Lamb
Events Coordinator
vlamb@gwmail.gwu.edu
Trisha Makovsky
Job Development Job Placement
Coordinator
temakovsky@gwu.edu
Ronica Marable
Distance Education Coordinator
rmarable@gwu.edu
Shari Matray
Senior Research Assistant
slmatray@gwu.edu
Dr. Maureen McGuire-Kuletz
Director/Associate Professor
mkuletz@gwu.edu
Bonnie Reid
Accounting Manager
breid@gwu.edu
Patricia Tomlinson
TACE Consultant
mandalay@comcast.net
Staff Spotlight
Melissa Diehl is our newest member of the Region 3 TACE Center. Melissa is no stranger to
Region 3 having spent almost 17 years in the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services
Agency as a Rehabilitation Specialist and Human Resource Development Specialist
(HRD). Melissa is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and received her Master’s in
Rehabilitation Counseling from The George Washington University in 2002. Melissa spent the
last two years at the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) as a Vocational Rehabilitation
Program Specialist for the State Monitoring Program Improvement Division (SMPID).
Melissa will be working with our transition leadership council, training coordinator, provider
liaison, and VR Business NETwork learning communities. She will be providing technical
assistant to our state agencies and will be facilitating online and in person trainings on topic areas
such as ethics, critical thinking, and clinical supervision. We are thrilled to have Melissa join us
as she will be an excellent addition to our team!