Brain Injury and Work

A vocational training program for adults with traumatic and other types of acquired brain injuries living in the community includes 20 structured sessions with a workbook and CD with worksheets. Part One of the vocational curriculum helps survivors of brain injuries and blast injuries explore their interests, concerns and readiness for finding a job or returning to work. Part Two covers steps of looking for a job with attention to disclosure of a disability, on the job accommodations, resume preparation and interviewing. Part Three covers strategies for keeping a job and avoiding problems on the job.

After a brain injury, people often don’t know whether they will be able to work or what else they can do. This practical guide can help people sort through the options of going back to the same job, finding a new job, or not going back to work. The book will help you find and successfully keep a job. The book also provides suggestions for volunteer work designed to help you be productive and, if you like, transition to a job that meshes with your interests and abilities.

This illustrated down-to-earth book contains checklists, worksheets, and many ideas offered by people who have learned to live and work productively after brain injury. Sample “ideas” in this book include:

• How to decide whether to keep your old job.
• Deciding whether you can afford to work.
• If you can't work, figuring out what you can do.
• What kinds of services are out there.
• What you should tell people who ask you about going back to work.