Hi,

I was scheduled for Voc Rehab and when I got the letter I knew that I could not sit for the 5+ hours for testing. I am 100% PTSD and sit in my bedroom watching TV. I would like to do something besides watch TV. I would like to learn to paint or draw. Does anyone know who I would contact to learn these skills?

Thank you

JoAnn, I would suggest going to the bookstore for some art books or something. Your right that you couldn't sit in the testing for that long, more than likely. Plus if your aptitude test doesn't match what you think you might like to do , then they might not give you the stuff you want anyway. When I went through the testing, I was happy with the results of what I could be proficient in, then the bad news that what I was suited to do, would no way work with PTSD. Then Voc. Rehab wanted me to try being a night clerk at a hotel, so I would have less interaction with the public. My Dr. put the ixnay on that really quick. Sometimes you can be better off trying to learn something on your own, as 65you can do it at your own pace. I got a guitar two xmas's ago. I still can't play the first song on it. It's something I want to do, but I don't fool myself about committing to something on a consistent basis anymore. I've come to cope with my PTSD, however painful it is to accept.

Is the testing for math, reading, etc? 5 hrs is a long time to sit for a test even w/o any disabilities!

Voc Regab has a program for this called Independent Living and it is designed for Veterans who cannot be rehabbed for work so that they don't have to sit in a house and look at four walls and youd don't have to test for it just ask for it.

Good Luck

joann -

sitting locked in the bedroom watching tv can make your ptsd worse, i am glad you are thinking of trying something new, i think it will help, below is a bit of information about independent living services, i hope it helps. also if you have trouble leaving the house, you can do a lot right from your computer, shop for books from amazon, i also buy audiobooks to listen to, also there is a website that i use to learn new computer stuff, http://www.lynda.com it has different prices for different classes, i've taken a bunch and i like them.

Independent Living Program (ILP) participants must submit an application
(VA Form 28-1900) for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services (VR&E), complete a comprehensive evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) who must determine the applicant is entitled to services and that an ILP program is appropriate.

What Is The Independent Living Program?

The Independent Living program is to make sure that each eligible veteran is able, to the maximum extent possible, to live independently and participate in family and community life increasing their potential to return to work. Services may include the following:

• assistive technology
• specialized medical, health, and / or rehabilitation services
• services to address any personal and / or family adjustment issues
• independent living skills training
• connection with community-based support services

Who May Qualify For ILP?

Veteran's whose service-connected disabilities are so severe they are currently unable to purse an employment goal.

How Are ILPs Developed?

When a Vocational Rehbilitation Counselor (VRC) determines that employment goals are not currently feasible. An evaluation of the veteran's independent living needs will be conducted. The VRC and veteran will work together to identify the veteran's needs. Together they will determine services required to address the identified needs. An individualized Independent Living Program will be written providing the services necessary to meet the veteran's identified needs. Referral to specialized rehabilitation facilities and / or for consultation with other rehabilitation professionals may be necessary in the development and implementation of a veteran's ILP.

I watched a video about 20 min long, then talked to the counselor and was out of there in a little over an hour. Fast quick and simple.

HI JoAnn

My husband is also 100% PTSD P&T, are you total and permanent????

If you are Voc Rehab probably won't help you, like T-Bird said, check out the Independant Living Program. They sent the same letter about the 5+ hours of tests for my husband. He just told them he was pursuing ILP and that he was 100% P&T, they sent another letter about a week later, say to ring his Voc Rehab Counsellor to organise a homebased Interview. Try ringing the VA and letting them know, if your lucky they will just send someone to your house.

Check out the other Posting for ILP here on Hadit.com. There are many things this program can do for you. Indcluding online classes, a computer, art supplies etc. Definately worth checking out!

Good Luck